20051764 Ver 1_Monitoring Reports_20050328

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QUALITATIVE INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
ASSESSMENT
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson Christian School Road)
From North of NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road)
City of Wilson, Wilson County
F.A. Project No. STP-1158(2)
State Project No. 8.2341801
TIP Project No. U-3823
Prepared for:
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North Carolina Department of Transportation
Office of Human Environment
Prepared by:

EcoScience
1101 Haynes Street, Suite 101
Raleigh, NC 27604
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5200 77 Center Drive, Suite 500
Charlotte, NC 28277
March 28, 2005

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction ..........................................................................................................1
2.0 Project Description and Background .................................................................2
2.1 Purpose and Need ...................................................................................................3
2.2 Functional Classification and Statistics .....................................................................3
3.0 Study Area Definition (GUIDANCE STEP I) ........................................................4
3.1 Demographic Area ...................................................................................................4
3.2 Growth Impact Study Area .......................................................................................4
3.3 Project Impact Area ..................................................................................................5
4.0 Study Area Direction and Goals (GUIDANCE STEP II) .....................................6
4.1 Data/Information Sources .........................................................................................6
4.2 Population, Demographics, and Socioeconomic Conditions 6
:::::::............................
4.2.1 Population Trends ...................................................... ..
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4.2.2 Employment Trends ........................................................................................ ..8
4.3 Transportation ........................................................................................................ 10
4.4 Land Use and Zoning ............................................................................................. 11
4.4.1 Existing Land Use ........................................................................................... 11
4.4.2 Local Plans ..................................................................................................... 12
4.4.3 Zoning ............................................................................................................. 13
4.4.4 Future Land Use ............................................................................................. 13
4.5 Environmental Regulations .................................................................................... 14
4.5.1 Federal and State Regulations ........................................................................ 14
4.5.2 Basin and Water Supply Watershed Regulations ............................................ 15
4.5.3 303d Waters .................................................................................................... 16
4.5.4 Local/Other Regulations .................................................................................. 16
5.0 Important Resources and Notable Features (GUIDANCE STEP III) ...............17
6.0 Identify Activities that Cause Effects (GUIDANCE STEP IV) ..........................19
6.1 Previous Documentation/Findings ..........................................................................19
6.2 Project Related Activities ........................................................................................20
6.3 Other Projects ........................................................................................................20
7.0 Analysis of Indirect/Cumulative Effects (GUIDANCE STEPS V and VI) ........22
7.1 Potential for Land Use Changes .............................................................................22
7.2 Potential for Induced Growth ..................................................................................23
8.0 Analysis Results and Cumulative Impacts (GUIDANCE STEP VII) ................24
' 9.0 References .........................................................................................................26
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' SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson j
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

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LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Population Growth Trends ................................................................7
Table 2. Demographic Area - 1990 and 2000 ....................................................7
Table 3. Five-Year Population Projections - 2000-2020 ......................................8
Table 4. Employment by Sector -Wilson County, 1990 - 2003 ............................9
Table 5. Employment by Sector -North Carolina, 1990 - 2003 ..........................10
Table 6. NPDES Permits for Subbasin 03-04-07 in Wilson County .......................14
Table 7. Classification of Streams within the Growth Impact Study Area ...............15
Table 8. Federally Protected Species in Wilson County .....................................17
Table 9. Federal Species of Concern in Wilson County .....................................17
Table 10. Hazardous Sites and Landfills .........................................................18
LIST OF FIGURES (figures follow report text)
Figure 1. Project Location
Figure 2. Study Area
Figure 3. Project Impact Area
Figure 4. Generalized Zoning
Figure 5. Notable and Natural Features
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson
Christian School Road) from North of
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road)
FINAL ICE
TIP Project No. U-3823
Wilson County

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to widen SR 1158 (Airport
Boulevard) to a multi-lane facility from north of NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) in Wilson
County. Airport Boulevard is known as Wilson Christian School Road within the project
limits. It is referred to as SR 1158 or Airport Boulevard in this report.
The proposed improvement consists of widening SR 1158 to a five-lane facility, except for
the section in the vicinity of Bloomery Swamp, where afour-lane facility is proposed in order
to minimize wetland impacts. The project length is approximately 2 miles. It begins just
north of NC 42, where it will tie into existing five-lane section north of SR 1136 (Old Raleigh
Road). The project ends at US 264 (Raleigh Road). The travel lanes on SR 1158 will be 12
feet wide. The proposed design will replace the existing box culvert at Bloomery Swamp with
a bridge 200 feet in length. A curb and gutter section will be used along the entire length of
the project.
SR 1158 serves industrial, commercial, and residential traffic between NC 58 (Nash Street)
and NC 42. Airport Boulevard is currently atwo-lane section within the project limits (with
center turn lanes or right/left turn lanes at intersections and the Wilson Christian School).
SR 1158 is five lanes from US 264 (Raleigh Road) north to NC 58 (Nash Street).
Identify Study Area Direction and Goals
The purpose of the Indirect and Cumulative Effects Assessment (ICEA) is, to the extent
reasonable and practical, to assess the potential indirect and cumulative effects that may
result from the incremental effects of the proposed widening with other past, present, and
future development activities in the project region. The study area includes the immediate
project corridor and extends outward to include the area of potential development and/or land
use changes that may result from or be influenced by the project. Study area definitions
were developed based on the City of Wilson's Urban Growth Area (as delineated in their
1999 Growth Plan), existing development patterns, and more specific locations where
development changes are likely to occur.
A review of data and information obtained from a personal interview with the City of Wilson
' staff revealed that conditions within the growth impact study area were found to be conducive
to growth. However, the potential for project-induced growth and transitions to higher
intensity land uses are modest.
' The following observations were made about the study area direction:
' • Between 1990 and 2000, Wilson County's population grew at a rate slower than the state
(11.7% versus 21.4%), and the City of Wilson grew at a rate slightly slower than the
state's (20.2% versus 21.4%).
' • The project is in an area that is transitioning from rural character to suburban/urban,
consistent with the City's plans. Overall, there is a mixture of farmland and scattered
residential uses fronting the corridor. There are numerous vacant parcels along the
' existing corridor.
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson
Christian School Road) from North of III TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

' • Between 1990 and 2000, the population within the ICEA demographic area for TIP U-
3823 increased by approximately 32%. The demographic area grew almost three times
' as much as Wilson County (11.7%) and also grew more than North Carolina (21.4%).
• Numerous residential and commercial developments, ranging from small residential
' subdivisions to a large mixed-use (residential, office, and business) development that will
include a Target retail store at the project's northern terminus with US 264, have been
approved in the project vicinity.
' • In an interview with City of Wilson staff, the City stated their desire for growth to the west
and north of the City, and expressed their desire to annex to these areas. Their long-
' term annexation plans are anticipated to progress with westward growth to Interstate 95
within their designated Primary Urban Growth Area.
' Inventory of Notable Features
• A review of the NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) revealed that there are no Federal
Species of Concern (FSC) within the ICEA growth impact study area. The Environmental
Assessment (EA) for Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Project Number U-3823
(August 28, 2002) noted the existence of suitable habitat within its study area for the
following FSC in Wilson County: Eastern Henslow's sparrow, pinewoods shiner, Atlantic
pigtoe, and Carolina asphodel. A search of NHP database lists conducted in December
2004 shows no documentation of other rare species in the immediate vicinity of the
project.
• Four archeological sites and one landfill are located within the ICEA growth impact study
area (See Figure 5).
Identify Activities that Cause Effects
• The City's plan for suburban development in the project study area will change the
agricultural character of the area. This is consistent with recent development trends,
encouraged by the City, that have focused new growth to the north and west portions of
Wilson.
• This project, combined with other past and recently completed projects, will improve inter-
' city connectivity and traffic flow in a growing portion of Wilson.
• The Environmental Assessment (EA) for Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
' Project Number U-3823 (August 28, 2002) concluded that, `Areas slated for development
over the next couple of decades have the potential to locally degrade the waterway,
especially after storm events. Furthermore, although the widening of SR 1158 would not
be exclusively and directly responsible, it would contribute to cumulative water quality
t impacts, which could be offset by more wetlands and buffers that can be maintained or
restored at the crossing of Bloomery Swamp."
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' SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson
Christian School Road) from North of IV TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

' Potential Indirect and Cumulative Effects for Analysis
• According to the City of Wilson, there are no explicit economic development purposes for
TIP U-3823, nor is the proposed project being constructed to serve any specific new
developments. The City of Wilson has approved several developments along the
corridor, but City staff maintains that these developments would occur with or without TIP
Project U-3823. Although this project is not being specifically constructed to serve these
particular developments, the project will include improvements (such as those at the
intersection with US 264) that will enhance accessibility to these developments.
' • The otential for rowth and land use chan es in the broader rowth im act stud area
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are high. These land use changes are likely to occur whether or not the project is
' constructed. The project growth impact study area is within the City's Urban Growth
Area, and as outlined in their Growth Plan (1999), the City of Wilson is encouraging
residential, industrial, and commercial development in the this area, which is transitioning
' from a rural to suburban/urban character.
• The study area contains growth-inducing factors such as the presence of developable
land and the availability of water and sewer service. There is the potential for TIP Project
U-3823 to increase development pressure on the vacant land in the immediate vicinity of
the project. The influence of Project U-3823 over this change is likely to be moderate.
Furthermore, the market for development is relatively high in the TIP Project U-3823
project impact area. However, anticipated development is not necessarily project-related.
The City acknowledged that it is reasonably foreseeable that vacant parcels within the
project impact area will be developed within 15-20 years as they continue to encourage
development in this area. There is the potential for existing vacant and/or agricultural
parcels to transition from their current uses to other uses such as residential and/or
' commercial development.
Analyze Indirect and Cumulative Effects
' • Based on the NCDOT Guidance for Assessing Indirect and Cumulative Impacts of
Transportation Projects in North Carolina (November 2001) widening of an urban
principal arterial one mile or longer to provide additional through-traffic lanes has the
potential to change local or regional accessibility. Also, if conditions are favorable for
development and/or a region is currently undergoing urbanization, an improvement in the
transportation infrastructure is likely to influence where development will occur and not
' necessarily if it will occur. Given the City of Wilson's desire for growth, the market for
development in Wilson, land availability, and a strong real estate market, vacant land
along the project length is likely to develop faster as a result of the project. The project
may put development pressure on the vacant land in the immediate corridor vicinity, as
' water and sewer services are either available or will be expanded for development within
the City's Primary Urban Growth Area.
' • The proposed project is consistent and compatible with the City of Wilson's growth plans.
The project is located in an area that will continue to transition from a rural to more urban
' character.
' SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson v
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
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Evaluation of Analysis Results
• There is the potential for TIP Project U-3823 to induce land use changes along the
corridor. This is probable because of the corridor's close proximity to and connection
with more urban/commercial strips, the presence of the large mixed use development
planned at the project's northern terminus, and because of the City's Growth Policy,
which states (Policy 6.2), "Residential neighborhoods which have become infused or
closely surrounded by non-residential uses may undergo an orderly and controlled
conversion from residential use to higher density residential use or other compatible land
uses." As such, it is reasonable to assume that the larger existing scattered parcels that
contain single-family homes could, over time, transition to smaller lot single family, multi-
family, or small-scale commercial uses. According to the City, this would depend on
whether or not current and/or future owners of the corridor's large agricultural land
holdings succumb to development pressures.
TIP Project U-3823 is not projected to induce new development on its own, but may
increase the rate of development that is occurring in the project area. Numerous
developments in the project impact area have already been approved and platted and are
not conditional upon improvements to SR 1158.
Impacts from the project are more likely to be cumulative in nature rather than indirect
project-induced effects. The project has the potential for cumulative effects resulting from
the incremental effects of the proposed widening with other past projects and current and
future development activities in the project region. Non-transportation development
projects, such as the Heritage Place mixed use development that will include a Target
retail store at the US 264/SR 1158 intersection, may have impact on travel patterns in the
project impact area although the implementation of these projects is not conditional upon
improvements to SR 1158. The expansion of the industrial park located on Merck Road
(SR 1157) will create new jobs, which may encourage additional residential and
commercial development in the project impact area and attract more internal trips within
the Wilson urban area.
• The Bloomery Swamp stream crossing of SR 1158 is within 1.1 miles of a critical water
supply intake area (classified WS-IV NSW). The majority of Bloomery Swamp's
watershed is in rural, undeveloped areas outside of the City of Wilson. Within the County,
-95, US 264, and NC 42 cross Bloomery Swamp. There is an abundance of vacant land
available upstream from Bloomery Swamp. These vacant parcels would be accessed by
US 264 east of Interstate 95. Development of this area, together with the proposed
project, has the potential to cumulatively impact water quality in Bloomery Swamp.
Project U-3823 would replace an existing culvert over Bloomery Swamp with a bridge and
the project would be constructed in accordance with Neuse River Buffer Rules. These
measures would help to offset impacts to water quality.
There are no Phase II National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
dischargers located within the U-3823 study area.
• No streams within the growth impact study area appear on the NC 2002 Section 303(d)
list. Hominy Swamp appears on the draft 2004 303(d) list (DWQ 2004c) and is listed as
impaired in the Neuse River Basinwide Water Quality Plan (DWQ 2002a).
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson Vj
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
' The purpose of the Qualitative Indirect and Cumulative Effects (ICE) Assessment is, to the
extent reasonable and practical, to assess the potential indirect and cumulative effects that
may result from the incremental effects of the proposed widening of SR 1158 (also known as
Airport Boulevard or Wilson Christian School Road) with other past, present, and future
development activities in the project region. The assessment was conducted using available
' guidance from federal and state regulatory agencies, including:
• Considering Cumulative Effects Under the National Environmental Policy Act. CEQ
Guidance. (1997).
• Guidance for Assessing Indirect and Cumulative Impacts of Transportation Projects in
North Carolina. NCDOT. (November 2001).
• Interim Guidance: Questions and Answers Regarding the Consideration of Indirect and
Cumulative Impacts in the NEPA Process. FHWA. (January 2003).
Indirect effects (also known as secondary effects) are caused by the action and are later in
t time or farther removed in distance, but are still reasonably foreseeable. These effects may
include growth inducing effects and other effects related to induced changes that would not
otherwise occur without the project implementation, in the pattern of land use, population
density or growth rate, and related effects on air, water, and other natural systems, including
ecosystems (40 CFR § 1508.8).
Cumulative impacts are those impacts to the environment that result from the incremental
impact of an action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future
actions, regardless of what agency (federal or non-federal) or person undertakes such other
' actions. Cumulative impacts can result from individually minor but collectively significant
actions taking place over a period of time (40 CFR § 1508.7).
' "Effect" and "impact" are used synonymously in the CEQ regulations (40 CFR § 1508.8) and
are used interchangeably in this report.
' This report includes a brief description of the project, its purpose and need, and other
background information. The report also documents the methodology for the analysis,
including a description of the ICE study area and important characteristics. The
documentation concludes with the findings of the analysis.
' SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson 1
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
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2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND BACKGROUND
Project information in this and subsequent sections is from the Environmental Assessment
(EA) for Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Project Number U-3823 (August 28,
' 2002) and the TIP Project U-3823 Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) (December
2003).
' Figure 1 shows the project location. The project is located just west of the Wilson City limits
in west Wilson County. It is east of Interstate 95 between US 264 and NC 42. The existing
right-of-way along SR 1158 within the project area ranges between 60 -100 feet.
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The proposed right-of-way width is 110 feet. The widening will be a combination of
symmetric and asymmetric widening to provide a "best-fit alignment" in order to minimize
impacts to wetlands and residences. The five-lane roadway will consist of two 12-foot travel
lanes in each direction with a 12-foot center-turn lane and curb-and-gutter. The cross-
section would be reduced to four lanes (two 12-foot travel lanes in each direction) in the
vicinity of Bloomery Swamp in order to minimize impacts to wetlands. The proposed design
will replace the existing box culvert at Bloomery Swamp with a bridge 200 feet in length.
The project will be designed for a minimum design speed of 50 mph and a posted speed limit
of 45 mph.
No control of access is planned for this project. However, current access to the Heritage
Place subdivision (via Gloucester Place) off of Airport Boulevard (south of the railroad tracks)
will be removed with construction of the project. New access will be provided east of the SR
1158/US 264 intersection off of US 264 through a connection of Heritage Drive and
Westwood Drive.
The proposed project also includes the following intersection modifications:
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson
Christian School Road) with US 264
(Raleigh Road) - A second left turn
lane and an exclusive right-turn lane is
proposed to be added to southbound
SR 1158. Also, a second left turn lane
and an exclusive right turn lane are
proposed to be added to eastbound
US 264 at this intersection. The
addition of dual exclusive right-turn
lanes are proposed for northbound
SR 1158. A second left turn lane is
proposed to westbound US 264 at the
intersection.
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardM/ilson
Christian School Road) from North of
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road)
FINAL ICE
End Project at US 264 intersection with SR 1158
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TIP Project No. U-3823
Wilson County

' • SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson Christian School Road) and SR 1157 (Merck
Road - A second left turn lane is proposed to be striped on existing pavement on
eastbound SR 1157 (Merck Road).
At the railroad crossing near Bloomery Swamp a "sealed crossing," including gates, signal
t flashers, and a monolithic concrete barrier, will be installed in the median leading up to the
crossing. A sealed crossing restricts motorists from crossing the railroad tracks while the
gates are down.
2.1 Purpose and Need
' The purpose and need for the proposed project is documented in the TIP Project U-3823
Environmental Assessment (EA) (August 28, 2002) and is summarized in this section. As
documented in the EA, the purpose of the project is to "improve capacity and improve safety
' along this section of SR 1158." The FONSI (December 2003) indicated, "The project is
driven by the need to improve traffic flow, level of service, and safety on this section of SR
1158."

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Based on 2000 traffic data, SR 1158 is
operating at LOS F at the intersection with
US 264, and will continue to worsen as
traffic increases through 2025. The
intersection of SR 1158 with Merck Road
(SR 1157) is expected to operate at a
LOS E in the design year (2025) if no
improvements are implemented. SR 1158
is expected to operate at a LOS F in the
design year if no improvements are made.
Although accident rates are currently
under the statewide average for similar
roadways, it is anticipated that the
increase of traffic into the design year
could increase the facility's accident
potential.
According to the EA, 2000 traffic volumes on SR 1158 between NC 42 and US 264 range
between 4,000 - 4,500 vehicles per day (vpd). Projected 2025 traffic volumes range from
21,600 - 22,000 vpd.
2.2 Functional Classification and Statistics
As noted in the EA, SR 1158 is classified as a rural major collector from NC 42 to the urban
boundary limit (approximately 1.25 miles), and as a rural minor collector up to US 264
(Raleigh Road). US 264 (Raleigh Road) is classified as an urban principal arterial, SR 1157
(Merck Road) as a rural local road, SR 1136 (Old Raleigh Road) as a rural minor collector,
and NC 42 as an urban principal arterial.
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson 3
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE
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Looking south at SR 1158/Merck Road intersection

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3.0 STUDY AREA DEFINITION (GUIDANCE STEP I)
' In accordance with the NCDOT Guidance for Assessing Indirect and Cumulative Impacts of
Transportation Projects in North Carolina (November 2001), techniques for defining a study
area were combined to produce a study area that was suitable for considering a full range of
potential indirect and cumulative effects. The study area definition evolved through the
identification of political/geographic boundaries, consideration of the project purpose and
need, and review and consideration of land development patterns, location of existing
' water/sewer services, regional and local travel patterns, service area provided by the
proposed improvement, census data, and population densities. Local representatives from
the City of Wilson assisted in defining this area by responding to preliminary study area maps
' presented at the interview and answering questions about potential project-induced changes
in the area.
Study area boundaries were defined for a Demographic Area, Growth Impact Study Area,
' and Project Impact Area. The timeframe for the analysis is 2020, which is the timeline used
in the City of Wilson Growth Plan: 1999 Update for anticipated growth of the city and its
' surrounding areas.
3.1 Demographic Area

A demographic analysis area was established as a starting point for the study area definition.
This geographic boundary was based on the census block groups comprising portions of the
' City of Wilson and of the City's extraterritorial jurisdiction. This area was used to identify
population growth characteristics for a larger population and also served as a basis to further
' refine the areas of impact.
Figure 2 depicts the demographic area. The demographic area consists of the following
Census Tracts and Block Groups (2000):
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Census Tracts Block Groups As Labeled on Figure 2
' • 4 1 040010
• 5 2 050020
• 5 4 050040
• 14 2 140020
• 15 1 150010
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3.2 Growth Impact Study Area
' The Growth Impact Study Area (GISA) is shown on Figure 2. The GISA was identified within
the demographic area based on the NCDOT Guidance (2001), an initial review of the project
area, and growth boundaries/service area limits. This is the area where there is potential for
' induced development as a result of the project, but is not necessarily the extent where
growth impacts are likely to occur. Data collection and analyses were conducted in the GISA
to define the Project Impact Area.
' SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson 4
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
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3.3 Project Impact Area
The Project Impact Area (PIA) boundary
was developed based on input received
from local representatives and an
t assessment of various factors such as
growth boundaries and potential for
changes in travel patterns. The Project
' Impact Area (PIA) is shown on Figure 3.
Generally, the project area contains a
mixture of agricultural, residential, and
' industrial development, and commercial
development at US 264.
Vacant parcel south of SR 1158/US 264 intersection
The area shown in Figure 3 was identified as having the potential for changes to travel
' patterns and land use, as this area contains vacant land and some of the City's recently
approved developments.
' The PIA boundary to the north includes an area extending north of US 264 where there is
one industrial/commercial park that is not fully built out. The widening of Airport Boulevard
under Project U-3823 would provide an improved alternative route to Interstate 95 South (via
' the NC 42 interchange). An improved Airport Boulevard also would provide enhanced
access (via NC 42) to the existing and planned industrial development along Merck Road
(SR 1157), as current access to this industrial park is via the NC 42 interchange with
Interstate 95 and the US 264 interchange with Interstate 95.
Since the project will include intersection improvements, it will enhance access to the
approved Heritage Place development for the vacant area around the SR 1158/US 264
intersection. Therefore, the Heritage Place development was included in the PIA. To the
south, the corridor also provides access to other approved projects, including two planned
subdivisions at the project's southern terminus (also included in the PIA). These
developments are discussed in more detail in Section 7.2.
The PIA also encompasses a large area of vacant land between Airport Blvd and Interstate
' 95 south of Bloomery Swamp that is within the City's Urban Growth Area. The proposed
project could potentially induce or facilitate growth on some of this vacant land (See Section
4.4.2).
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson
Christian School Road) from North of 5 TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
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4.0 STUDY AREA DIRECTION AND GOALS (GUIDANCE STEP II)
4.1 Data/Information Sources
The following data sources provided information necessary for identifying past and likely
trends and to serve as a basis for evaluating the project's potential to induce growth and
affect land use:
• Environmental Assessment for TIP Project No. U-3823 (NCDOT PDEA Branch, August
2002)
• FONSI for TIP Project No. U-3823 (NCDOT PDEA Branch, December 2003)
• 1990 and 2000 US Census data (downloaded from American FactFinder web site,
http://factfinder.census.gov, and NC State Data Center, http://www.sdc.state.nc.us)
• Employment Security Commission of North Carolina data (downloaded from web site,
http://www. ncesc. com)
• City of Wilson Growth Plan: 1999 Update
• Thoroughfare Plan for the City of Wilson (NCDOT Statewide Planning Branch, 1996).
• Interview with Janet Batten Holland, AICP, City of Wilson Technical Review Coordinator
(and other City Technical Review Committee members), December 7, 2004.
4.2 Population, Demographics, and Socioeconomic Conditions
4.2.1 Population Trends
' The City of Wilson, the county seat, is the largest of seven municipalities within Wilson
County. The primary influence on growth in Wilson County is its proximity to the Interstate
95 corridor and to regional urban activity centers. The City is within an hour drive to Raleigh.
Table 1 presents population trends for the State of North Carolina, Wilson County, and the
City of Wilson. According to the US Census, Wilson County grew at a rate slower than the
state, and the City of Wilson grew at a rate slightly slower than the state's between 1990 and
' 2000.
Table 2 lists the 1990 and 2000 population and the numbers of households for the census
' block groups within the demographic area. The table indicates that the population in the
demographic area increased by approximately 32% between 1990 and 2000. Between 1990
and 2000, the total number of households in the demographic area increased by
' approximately 36%. The increase in population may be due to the fact that the City of
Wilson has annexed outlying areas and experienced a steady increase in development over
the past ten years.
' Within the demographic area, block group 1 in census tract 4; block group 4 in census tract
5; and block group 2 in census tract 14, had the highest growth rate between 1990 and 2000.
All of these block groups, whole or in part, are located within the City's primary growth area,
' which is identified in the City of Wilson Growth Plan (1999) as an area in which they are
promoting growth.
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNUilson 6
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
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Table 1. Population Growth Trends
Growth
P
l
ti
opu
a
on
Actual Difference % Change
1980 1990 2000 1980- 1990- 1980- 1990-
2000 2000 2000 2000
North
Carolina 5,880,095 6,628,637 8,046,485 2,166,390 1,417,848 36.8 21.4
Wilson
Count 63,132 66,061 73,811 10,679 7,750 16.9 11.7
Wilson 34,424 36,930 44,405 9,981 7,475 29.0 20.2
U-3823
Demographic N/A 8,224 10,901 N/A 2,677 N/A 32.5
Area
Source: NC State Data Center (Data Services Public Web Sites).
Table 2. Demographic Area -1990 and 2000
Census
Tract Block
Groups
(1990) Census
Tract Block
Groups
2000
Population
Households Average
Household
Size
(
) 1990 2000 1990 2000 1990 2000
4 5 4 1 1,551 2,418 687 1,014 2.80 2.15
5 2 5 2 1,737 1,683 627 650 2.97 2.59
5 4 5 4 2,535 3,998 962 1,546 3.02 2.51
14 2 14 2 1,567 2,034 666 877 2.89 2.32
15 1 15 1 834 768 304 329 3.11 2.33
Total 8,224 10,901 3,246 4,416 N/A N/A
Source: U5 Gensus (American FactFintlerweb site).
Figure 2 shows the Census boundaries. As an example, the area labeled 040010 on Figure 2 is Census Tract 4, and
Block Group 1 in this table.
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardM/ilson
Christian School Road) from North of
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road)
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7
TIP Project No. U-3823
Wilson County

As shown in Table 3, the population of Wilson County is expected to increase by about 25%
between 2000 and 2025, which is lower than the rate projected for the State. Both Wilson
County and the City of Wilson anticipate a continued increase in population as they continue
to develop.
Table 3. Five-Year Population Projections - 2000-2025

2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 Change
(2000-
2025
North 8,046,807 8,709,947 9,441,440 10,194,993 10,943,973 11,711,250 45.5
Carolina
Wilson 73,811 77,065 81,041 84,586 88,469 91,969 24.6
Count
Source: NC State Data Center (Data Services Public Web Sites).
4.2.2 Employment Trends
Tables 4 and 5 show employment by sector for industries in Wilson County and North
Carolina. In Wilson County, growth occurred in all industry sectors except for Wholesale
Trade and Information. The Health Care & Social Assistance sector experienced the most
growth (over 84%) between 1990 and 2003. The Finance & Insurance sector experienced
the second highest growth (over 66%) between 1990 and 2003.
A comparison of the two tables reveals that the State experienced much larger percentage
gains in Administrative and Waste Services and Educational Services. Wilson County
gained employment in the Manufacturing sector while the state lost a significant share of
these jobs.
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson 8
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

Table 4. Employment by Sector -Wilson County, 1990 - 2003
Em to ment Cha n e
Employment Sector 1990 2003 Actual
Difference
Chan e
A riculture, Forest , Fishin , & Huntin 320 479 159 49.7
Minin * * *
Utilities * * * *
Construction 2,693 3,120 427 15.8
Manufacturin 8,180 9,463 1,283 15.7
Wholesale Trade 2,166 1,746 -420 -19.4
Retail Trade 3,629 3,913 284 7.8
Trans ortation & Warehousin 814 964 150 18.4
Information 273 215 -58 -21.2
Finance & Insurance 436 726 290 66.5
Real Estate/Rental & Leasin 155 201 46 29.7
Professional & Technical Services * 1,953 * *
Mana ement of Com anies & Enter rises * * * *
Administrative & Waste Services 1,828 1,951 123 6.7
Educational Services 2,605 2,625 20 .77
Health Care & Social Assistance 2,382 4,385 2,003 84.1
Arts, Entertainment, & Recreation * 261 * *
Accommodation and Food Services 2,038 2,448 410 20.1
Other Services Other than Public Admin. 712 733 21 2.9
Public Administration/Government 1,709 2,102 393 23.0
Unclassified * 44 * *
Source: North Carolina Employment Security Commission.
Notes: Employment numbers are Annual Average Employment for aggregate of all types by Sector (2 digit).
*Due to incomplete information, indicates not available and/or excluded from comparison.
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson 9
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
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1

u

Table 5. Employment by Sector -North Carolina, 1990 - 2003
Em to ment Cha n e
Employment Sector 1990 2003 Actual
Difference
Chan e
A riculture, Forest , Fishin , & Huntin 21,827 30,440 8,613 39.5
Minin 3,993 3,976 -17 -.43
Utilities 27,287 15,195 -12,092 -44.3
Construction 166,733 211,163 44,430 26.6
Manufacturin 820,249 602,020 -218,229 -26.6
Wholesale Trade 139,697 162,755 23,058 16.5
Retail Trade 381,041 436,680 55,639 14.6
Trans ortation & Warehousin 102,720 132,203 29,483 28.7
Information 58,588 76,525 17,937 30.6
Finance & Insurance 103,041 138,120 35,079 34.0
Real Estate/Rental & Leasin 32,493 47,201 14,708 45.3
Professional & Technical Services 91,327 148,202 56,875 62.2
Mana ement of Com anies & Enter rises 35,104 61,193 26,089 74.3
Administrative & Waste Services 110,979 213,215 102,236 92.1
Educational Services 233,161 325,170 92,009 39.5
Health Care & Social Assistance 261,592 453,879 192,287 73.5
Arts, Entertainment, & Recreation 31,090 50,681 19,591 63.0
Accommodation and Food Services 206,014 292,313 86,299 41.9
Other Services Other than Public Admin. 80,279 97,578 17,299 21.5
Public Administration/Government 171,716 214,224 42,508 24.7
Unclassified 7,946
Source: North Carolina Employment Security Commission.
Notes: Employment numbers are Annual Average Employment for aggregate of all types by Sector (2 digit).
'Due to incomplete information, indicates not available and/or excluded from comparison.
4.3 Transportation
' The City of Wilson is located at the crossroads of Interstate 95 and US 264, approximately
45 minutes east of Raleigh. Interstate 95 traverses Wilson County from north to south,
intersecting with US 264 in the western part of the county. US 264, NC 42, NC 58, US 301,
NC 117, NC 581, NC 222, US 264-A, and NC 91 are the major traffic routes for tourists and
commercial traffic through the county.
Wilson Industrial Air Center, which serves small aircraft, is the only airport within Wilson
County. Rocky Mount -Wilson Airport in Nash County serves Wilson County with commuter
flights and small commercial flights. The nearest large commercial service is Raleigh-
Durham International, a distance of approximately 55 miles.
' CSX and Norfolk & Southern railroads serve Wilson County. These
two lines intersect on the east side of the City of Wilson.
' SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson
Christian School Road) from North of 1 ~ TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
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ii

There are three intersecting streets within the project widening limits. SR 1136 (Old Raleigh
Road) is an unsignalized intersection at the southern terminus of the project north of NC 42.
SR 1157 (Merck Road) is a signalized intersection with SR 1158 approximately halfway
between US 264 (Raleigh Road) and NC 42. US 264 (Raleigh Road) is a signalized
intersection with SR 1158 at the northern end of the project.
4.4 Land Use and Zoning
The following sections describe existing and future land use and zoning within the growth
impact study area. Land use and zoning information for the study area was obtained from
the City of Wilson and from the TIP Project U-3823 Environmental Assessment (EA) (August
28, 2002).
4.4.1 Existing Land Use
The description of existing land use described in the TIP Project U-3823 Environmental
Assessment (EA) (August 28, 2002) was verified through a field visit on December 7, 2004.
The project is in an area that is transitioning from rural character to suburban. Overall, there
is a mixture of farmland and scattered residential uses fronting the corridor. As can be seen
on Figure 3, there are numerous vacant parcels along the existing corridor. An interview
with the City of Wilson revealed that developments have been approved for many of these
vacant parcels, particularly in the area between US 264 and the railroad tracks to the south.
The section of SR 1158 from NC 42 to just
north of Merck Road (SR 1157) is more
rural in character, with predominately
farmland and isolated residential land uses
scattered on large land lots. Wilson
Christian Academy private school is located
at the Merck Road intersection on the east
side of SR 1158. Wilson Corporate Park, a
large corporate park, is located on Merck
Road west of the intersection at SR 1158.
This park contains Purdue Pharmaceuticals
and EON Pharma. Merck Road is a five-
lane curb and gutter roadway. Merck Road
has single-family homes fronting the section
between SR 1158 and International
Boulevard. Other single-family homes are
under construction just west of the
intersection with SR 1158.
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNUilson
Christian School Road) from North of
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road)
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Wilson Christian School at Merck Road
11
TIP Project No. U-3823
Wilson County

1

1

From Merck Road north along SR 1158
past Wilson Christian Academy is farmland
and the Bloomery Swamp. Railroad tracks
cross SR 1158 in the vicinity of Bloomery
Swamp. A newer residential subdivision,
(part of approved Heritage Place
development), is located just south of the
railroad tracks, and is currently accessed by
Gloucester Road off of SR 1158.
At the time of the field review (December 7,
2004), a new convenience store/gas station Homes off of SR 1158 (currently accessed from
was under construction in the northwest Gloucester Place) south of railroad tracks
quadrant of the intersection of SR 1158 with
US 264. The northeast and southeast quadrants are currently vacant. SR 1158 north of US
264 is a five-lane section. North of US 264 there is dense single-family residential land use
(both existing and under construction). There are also office uses under construction and
some commercial land use around the cross street of Airport Drive.
Located along US 264, near the intersection
with SR 1158, there are commercial
developments, including a strip mall
development, Parkwood Mall, and
restaurants. The US 264 corridor has
abundant new commercial development
between SR 1158 and Forest Hills Road.
Based on an interview with the City of
Wilson, the US 264 corridor will continue to
develop with a variety of commercial/service
establishments.
Forest Hills Road is a commercial strip, and
contains shopping centers with large
retailers such as Wal-Mart and Lowe's,
numerous restaurants, and shopping centers.
NC 58 (Nash Street) contains mostly
commercial land use.
' 4.4.2 Local Plans
The Citv of Wilson Growth Plan: 1999 Update
In September of 1999 the City of Wilson Growth Plan 1999 Update was approved by the
Planning Board and adopted by the Wilson City Council as a guide for development. The
Plan serves "as a foundation upon which future decisions can be made regarding capital
improvements, ordinances, development requests, zoning matters, subdivision approvals
t and other development related issues". The plan consists of growth and development
policies and it outlines an Urban Growth Area for the anticipated growth of the city and
' SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson 12
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE
Trinity Church and convenience/gas station
construction at intersection of SR 1158/US 264

surrounding areas over the next 20 years. The boundary of the Urban Growth Area, which
can be seen on Figures 1 and 2, is primarily based on existing and proposed distribution of
water and sewer lines, location of other public services that exist or may be expected to exist
within the area and location of anticipated urban development during this time period. In the
development of its Urban Growth Area (UGA), the City considered existing and anticipated
major roadway improvements that can influence the location of growth, private development
interests, including residential and industrial developments and major commercial
developments that locate around major interchanges and along major road corridors. The
UGA consists of a Primary Urban Growth Area (PUGA) and Secondary Urban Growth Area
(SUGA).
The PUGA includes areas where water and sewer facilities are already available or planned.
Urban development exists or can be anticipated in this area, and further
development/redevelopment is especially encouraged. According to the City's Growth Plan,
the PUGA "Should receive first priority for the provision or enhancement of water and sewer
services." The plan also noted that urban type development be concentrated within compact
growth areas contiguous to or within the existing PUGA where public service infrastructure
already exists, is imminent, or can be efficiently or economically extended. The TIP Project
U-3823 growth impact study area and project impact area are both located within the PUGA.
In an interview with the City of Wilson, the City indicated that the north and west portions of
the city are and will continue to be high growth areas.
Thoroughfare Plan for the City of Wilson (March 19961
The City of Wilson approved its Thoroughfare Plan in 1996. The Plan promotes a
hierarchical and functional road network that encourages the proper arrangement of land
patterns by controlling the location of city and state streets and roads.
Widening improvements to Airport Boulevard are included in the Plan as a proposed 2015
recommended improvement. However, the improvement in the Plan shows SR 1158 within
the project limits as a three-lane facility.
4.4.3 Zoning
The project is located within the City of Wilson's extraterritorial jurisdiction. Figure 4 depicts
generalized existing zoning in the study area. The majority of the area surrounding the
corridor is zoned agricultural. It is anticipated that this zoning designation will transition along
the corridor as approved developments are realized (See Section 7.2).
4.4.4 Future Land Use
' The City of Wilson outlines its vision for future growth in the City of Wilson Growth Plan 1999
Update. The City identified specific policies and delineated primary and secondary urban
growth boundaries, as described in Section 4.4.2. The City of Wilson will encourage
' "Properly planned urban-type development, including developments with mixed zoning
districts, that promotes efficient provision of public services and meets appropriate City
' SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson 13
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

u

standards, including provision of City water and sewer, which is encouraged within the urban
growth area."
' Several residential and commercial developments have been approved in the project vicinity.
These range from small residential subdivisions to a large mixed-use (residential, office, and
' business) development that will include a Target retail store at the project's northern terminus
at US 264. These projects are detailed in Section 7.2.
' In an interview with City of Wilson staff, the City stated their desire for additional annexation
opportunities. Their long-term annexation plans are anticipated to progress with westward
growth to Interstate 95 within the PUGA.
' 4.5 Environmental Regulations
4.5.1 Federal and State Regulations
Federal Phase 11 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Rules
As authorized by the Clean Water Act, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permit program controls water pollution by regulating point sources that discharge
pollutants into waters of the United States. Point sources are discrete conveyances such as
pipes or man-made ditches. Industrial, municipal, and other facilities must obtain permits if
their discharges go directly to surface waters. The portions of sub-basins 03-04-07 of the
Neuse River Basin in Wilson County support six (6) permitted, point source dischargers
(Table 6) (DWQ 2004a). No dischargers are located within the growth impact study area.
Table 6. NPDES Permits for Subbasin 03-04-07 in Wilson County
Permit Facility Class Receiving Stream
N00023906 Cit of Wilson Ma'or Contentnea Creek
N00084581 Wilson Technical Communit Colle a Minor Toisnot Swam
N00081884 Standard Commercial Tobacco Com an Minor Contentnea Creek
N00057606 Town of Stantonsbur Minor Contentnea Creek
N00049948 Town of Sarato a Minor Toisnot Swam
N00007536 Town of Stantonsbur Minor Contentnea Creek
Source: North Carolina DENR DWQ (2004a).
North Carolina Division of Land Resources (DLR) -Sediment and Erosion Control Act
This act requires that whenever aland-disturbing activity is undertaken on a tract comprising
more than 1.0 acre, the person conducting the activity must submit a Sediment and Erosion
Control Plan to the DLR. Local governments may review and enforce the program within
their jurisdiction, with the requirement that their program be no less stringent than the federal
program.
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson 14
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
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1
4.5.2 Basin and Water Supply Watershed Regulations
The DWQ has initiated awhole-basin approach to water quality management for the 17 river
basins within the state. Water quality for the proposed project area is summarized in the
Neuse River Basinwide Water Quality Plan (DWQ 2002a).
The growth impact study area occupies part of sub-basin 03-04-07 of the Neuse River Basin,
as defined by the NC Division of Water Quality (DWQ) (DWQ 2002). As the project is
located in the Neuse River Basin, riparian area rules (15A NCAC 02B .0242) for Nutrient
Sensitive Waters apply. The rules state that roads, bridges, stormwater management
facilities, ponds, and utilities may be allowed where no practical alternative exists. They also
state that these structures shall be located, designed, constructed, and maintained to have
minimal disturbance, to provide maximum erosion protection, to have the least adverse
effects on aquatic life and habitat, and to protect water quality to the maximum extent
practical through the use of best management practices. Per these rules, Wilson County
limits development activities within the Water Supply IV area to only the low-density option
described in the statute.
Classifications for streams in the project area are shown in Table 7. Classifications are
assigned to waters of the State of North Carolina based on the existing or contemplated best
usage of various streams or segments of streams in the basin. Two streams in the project
vicinity have Best Usage Classifications of WS-IV NSW. Nutrient Sensitive Waters (NSW)
are areas with water quality problems associated with excessive plant growth resulting from
nutrient enrichment. Nonpoint source and stormwater pollution control criteria for WS-IV
waters are governed by 15A NCAC 026 .0216. Water Supply IV (WS-IV) waters are used as
sources of potable water where a WS-I, II, or III classification is not feasible. These waters
are also protected for Class C uses. WS-IV waters are generally in moderately to highly
developed watersheds or Protected Areas, and involve some categorical restrictions on
discharges. Class C waters are suitable for aquatic life propagation and protection,
agriculture, and secondary recreation. Secondary recreation includes wading, boating, and
other uses not involving human body contact with waters on an organized or frequent basis.
Table 7. Classification of Streams within the Growth Impact Study Area
Stream Name Index Classification
Homin Swam 27-86-8 C Sw NSW
Bloome Swam 27-86-6- 3 WS-IV NSW
She and Branch 27-86-5.7 WS-IV NSW
Source: North Carolina DENR DWQ (2000).
No designated High Quality Waters (HQW), Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), Water
Supply I (WS-I), or Water Supply II (WS-II) waters occur within the growth impact study area
(DWQ 2000).
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson 15
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

' 4.5.3 303d Waters
' The DWQ has assembled a list of impaired water bodies according to the Clean Water Act
Section 303(d) and 40 CFR 130.7, hereafter referred to as the NC 2002 Section 303(d) list.
The list is a comprehensive public accounting of all impaired water bodies, which are water
' bodies that do not meet water quality standards; including designated uses, numeric and
narrative criteria, and anti-degradation requirements defined in 40 CFR 131. The standards
violation may be due to an individual pollutant, multiple pollutants, pollution, or an unknown
' cause of impairment. The impairment could be from point sources, non-point sources,
and/or atmospheric deposition. Some sources of impairment exist across state lines.
' North Carolina's methodology is strongly based on the aquatic life use support guidelines
available in the Section 305(b) guidelines (EPA-841-B-97-002A and -0026). Those streams
attaining only Partially Supporting (PS) or Not Supporting (NS) status are listed on the NC
2002 Section 303(d) list. Streams are further categorized into one of six parts within the NC
' 2002 Section 303(d) list, according to source of impairment and degree of rehabilitation
required for the stream to adequately support aquatic life. Within Parts 1, 4, 5, and 6 of the
list, North Carolina has developed a priority ranking scheme (low, medium, high) that reflects
' the relative value and benefits those water bodies provide to the State.
No streams within the growth impact study area appear on the NC 2002 Section 303(d) list.
' Hominy Swamp appears on the draft 2004 303(d) list (DWQ 2004c) and is listed as impaired
in the Neuse River Basinwide Water Quality Plan (DWQ 2002a).

4.5.4 Local/Other Regulations
There are no environmental regulations in Wilson County that exceed those of the State's.
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson
Christian School Road) from North of
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road)
FINAL ICE
16
TIP Project No. U-3823
Wilson County

5.0 IMPORTANT RESOURCES AND NOTABLE FEATURES
' (GUIDANCE STEP III)
Surface Waters. Table 7 lists the surface water resources, including best use
' classifications, within the growth impact study area.
Water Quality. Two water quality monitoring stations are located within the growth impact
study area (DWQ 2002, GS 2004) (See Figure 5). Both the DWQ benthic macroinvertebrate
community monitoring and the US Geological Survey water quality monitoring sites are
located on Bloomery Swamp.
' Protected Species. Species with the federal classification of Endangered, Threatened, or
officially Proposed for such listing are protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of
' 1973, as amended (16 USC 1531 et seq.). The US Fish and Wildlife Service currently lists
three federally protected species for Wilson County (FWS 2003). Table 8 includes a list of
these species, which are listed as "Endangered".
' The February 3, 2003 FWS list includes a category of species designated as "federal species
of concern" (FSC). A species with this designation is one that may or may not be listed in the
future (formerly C2 candidate species or species under consideration for listing for which
' there is insufficient information to support listing). The FSC designation provides no federal
protection under the ESA for the species listed. Table 9 lists the five FSC that are currently
listed in Wilson County. NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) files list no documentation of
' FSC species within the growth impact study area. The EA (2002) notes the existence of
suitable habitat within its study area for Eastern Henslow's sparrow, pinewoods shiner,
Atlantic pigtoe, and Carolina asphodel. A search of NHP database lists conducted in
' December 2004 shows no documentation of other rare species in the immediate vicinity of
the project. As shown in Figure 5, the NHP also lists one significant natural area south of
the growth impact study area.
Table 8. Federally Protected Species in Wilson County
Common Name Scientific name Status
Red-cockaded wood ecker Picoides borealis Endan ered
Dwarf wed a mussel Alasmidonta heterodon Endan ered
Michaux's sumac Rhus michauxii Endan ered
Source: USFWS (2003).
Table 9. Federal Species of Concern in Wilson County
Common Name Scientific name
Eastern Henslow's s arrow Ammodramus henslowii
"Neuse" madtom Noturus furiosus o ulation 1
Pinewoods shiner L hrurus matutinus
Atlantic pigtoe Fusconaia masoni
Carolina as hodel Tofieldia labra
Source: USFWS (2003).
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/VVilson 17
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
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1
1
1
1
Historic and Archaeological Resources. Four archeological sites are listed in the growth
impact study area by the NC Office of State Archaeology (See Figure 5). No historic sites
were found in the growth impact study area.
Hazardous Materials. One landfill occurs in the growth impact study area (See Figure 5).
The NC Division of Waste Management (DWM) also lists three inactive hazardous sites just
outside the growth impact study area.
Table 10. Hazardous Sites and Landfills
Label Site t e
Friendl Cleaners Hazardous
Transeastern Cor . Hazardous
Triton Inc. Hazardous
Wilson Landfill Landfill
Source: North Carolina DENR DWM (2004a and 2004b).
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson
Christian School Road) from North of
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road)
FINAL ICE
18
TIP Project No. U-3823
Wilson County

6.0 IDENTIFY ACTIVITIES THAT CAUSE EFFECTS (GUIDANCE STEP IV)
6.1 Previous Documentation/Findings
The TIP Project U-3823 FONSI (December 2003) documents direct impacts for the entire
U-3823 corridor, including:
• One residential relocation.
• Minimal noise and air quality impacts.
• A total of .664 acres of wetlands.
• No impacts to federally-protected
species.
• No impacts to recreation facilities or
historic sites.
• No negative impacts on prime farmland
will occur.
• No hazardous material site impacts.
The TIP Project U-3823 Environmental Assessment (EA) (August 28, 2002) includes
discussions of secondary and cumulative impacts for both the human and natural
environments. The EA notes that the City's plan for suburban development in the project
study area will change the character of the area from a farming area, and that this is
consistent with recent development trends that focus new growth to the north and west
portions of Wilson. The EA concludes that "No other public or private actions have taken
place in the study area that would adversely affect its residents, and that there no past or
present actions combined would result in a cumulative impact that would either adversely or
beneficially affect the study area. "
The EA also focuses on potential secondary and cumulative impacts to Bloomery Swamp,
the major water body crossed by the project. Bloomery Swamp is not only a major connector
to tributaries, but links habitat, and transports sediment and toxins from the project area to
areas downstream of the project. The EA indicates that other roadways in the area
(Interstate 95, US 264, and NC 42) also have impacts on the waterway similar to those
described in the EA for the proposed project. In addition, "Areas slated for development over
the next couple of decades have the potential to locally degrade the waterway, especially
after storm events" and "although the widening of SR 1158 would not be exclusively and
directly responsible, it would contribute to cumulative water quality impacts, which could be
offset by more wetlands and buffers that can be maintained or restored at the crossing of
Bloomery Swamp."
The EA also discusses potential indirect impacts to a second stream crossed by SR 1158, an
unnamed tributary to Bloomery Swamp, which has an 800-acre watershed centered around
SR 1158. The EA concludes that the widening "Could increase the overall attractiveness of
the area to development, which could be indirectly responsible to some extent. "The EA
notes the potential for cumulative impacts on wildlife habitat due to current and future
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson
Christian School Road) from North of 19 TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE
Bloomery Swamp under SR 1158

development and other NCDOT roadway projects bisecting Bloomery Swamp that were
under construction at the time of the EA process (US 264 Bypass and NC 42 improvements).
6.2 Project Related Activities
Impact-causing activities resulting from Project U-3823 include potential alteration of local
traffic patterns and access, and the location and types of land use decisions. Based on the
NCDOT Guidance document, widening of an urban principal arterial one mile or longer to
provide additional through-traffic lanes has the potential to change local or regional
accessibility.
6.3 Other Projects
Cumulative impacts can result from past, present, and future projects unrelated to the
proposed project. Projects can include other transportation projects, private or public
development projects, including residential, commercial, or industrial construction, point
source discharges into surface waters, and changes in local policies that may encourage
incremental changes in land use patterns over time.
' There are no planned transportation projects in the current (2004-2010) Transportation
Improvement Program either intersecting or close to the proposed project that could have a
combined or cumulative effect in the impact area. This project, combined with other past and
recently completed projects, will improve inter-city connectivity and traffic flow in a growing
portion of Wilson. These projects are described below.

R-1023 - US 264 Wilson Bypass on new location from west of Interstate 95 to NC 58
east of Wilson (four-lane with full control of access). (This project was under construction
at the time of the EA publication and is now open to traffic).
U-3472 -Widen NC 42 from Interstate 95 east to SR 1165 (Forest Hills Road) (both four-
lane and five-lane sections used). (This project was under construction at the time of the
EA publication).
U-2727 -This project included widening Airport Boulevard from US 264 north to NC 58 to
five lanes. Also included in this project was the realignment of US 264 with Airport
Boulevard and Wilson Christian School Road. This project was completed in December
1996.
The area around Airport Boulevard from US 264 south to the railroad tracks contains
approved development projects. South of this area, there are approved developments on the
west side of the corridor. Notable non-transportation projects planned within the growth
impact study area are listed below (See Figure 3). These projects will be served by sewer
and water, and are subject to annexation.
• Cedar Ridge Subdivision -this cluster development will be located east of NC 42 and
south of SR 1158. The 33.3-acre site will consist of 45 residential lots and 9 commercial
lots.
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson 20
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

' • Sleepy Hollow Subdivision- located east of the southern project terminus east of NC
42 between SR 1158 and Millbrook Road, this 34.8 acre site will consist of 26.7 acres of
' residential (duplexes) and 8.1 acres of commercial uses.
• Brookfield Subdivision -located off of Merck Road east of Novopharm Boulevard and
just west of SR 1158, this 28.68 acre site will consist of 74 lots of single-family homes.
' • Coharie -located off of Merck Road in the northwest quadrant of the SR 1158
intersection, this 52.88-acre site will consist of single-family, multi-family, office and
commercial uses.
• Heritage Place -situated around the SR 1158/US 264 intersection, this development
encompasses over 718 acres, and includes mixed-use office, residential, and commercial
uses, including a Target retail store in the southeast quadrant.
' • Westpoint Subdivision -located off of Forest Hills Road, this development is over 7.5
acres, and will consist of commercial/various business uses.
• Wilson Industrial Air Center (addition) -this project will add to the existing 718-acre
' commercial and industrial site.
• Jetstream Park (addition) -this site is located off of Airport Boulevard across from the
Wilson Industrial Air Center on Jetstream Drive, and is over 9 acres (36 residential lots).

' SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson
Christian School Road) from North of 21 TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

7.0 ANALYSIS OF INDIRECT/CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
(GUIDANCE STEPS V AND VI)
' 7.1 Potential for Land Use Changes
' Data collection and an interview with the City of Wilson provided a foundation for determining
the potential for the project to induce growth and change land use/development patterns in
the project impact area. In accordance with the Guidance on Indirect and Cumulative
Impacts Assessment (November 2001), assessment of the following factors also were used
' to determine the potential for indirect and cumulative impacts, and whether a more detailed
analysis is warranted:
' Conflict with Local Plan
' The project does not conflict with any local plans, and is supported by the City of Wilson.
The project is compatible with the City of Wilson's plans for growth and development in this
portion of the City.
Explicit Economic Development Purpose
The project is not being constructed to complement or initiate any economic development
' plans.
Planned to Serve Specific Land Development
'
The project is not being constructed to serve any specific development. The City of Wilson
has approved several developments along the corridor, but staff noted that these
developments would occur with or without TIP Project U-3823. Although this project will not
serve these specific developments, the project will include improvements, such as those at
the intersection with US 264, which will enhance accessibility to these developments.
' Likely to Stimulate Land Development Having Complementary Functions
Factors such as distance to major urban centers, traffic volumes on intersecting roadways,
and the availability of water/sewer services were considered in assessing this factor.
The project is located in an area that is becoming more urbanized. SR 1158 connects with
' US 264 at the northern project terminus. US 264 connects with other thoroughfares,
including Forest Hills Road and NC 58 (Nash Street), which contain shopping areas. US 264
also is undergoing heavy commercial development.
' Likely to Influence Intraregional Land Development Location Decisions
' Based on the NCDOT Guidance, widening of an urban principal arterial one mile or longer to
provide additional through-traffic lanes has the potential to change local or regional
accessibility. Also, if conditions are favorable for development and/or a region is currently
undergoing urbanization, an improvement in the transportation infrastructure is likely to
influence where development will occur and not necessarily if it will occur. Given the City of
Wilson's desire for growth in the project area, the market for development in Wilson, land
SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson
Christian School Road) from North of 22 TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

availability, and a strong real estate market, vacant land along the project length is likely to
develop faster as a result of the project. The project may put development pressure on the
' vacant land in the immediate corridor vicinity, as water and sewer services are either
available or expected to be extended as development is planned.
' 7.2 Potential for Induced Growth
' The potential for growth and land use changes in the broader growth impact study area are
high. These land use changes are likely to occur whether or not the project is constructed,
as the influence of Project U-3823 over this change likely to be modest. As outlined in their
' Growth Plan (1999), the City of Wilson is encouraging residential, industrial, and commercial
development in the growth impact study area, which is transitioning from a rural to
suburban/urban character. The study area contains growth-inducing factors such as the
presence of developable land and the availability of water and sewer service. The project
' overall is not likely to cause a substantial change in use or intensity of land use.
Based on the interview with the City of Wilson, it is reasonably foreseeable that the project
impact area could be built out by 2020. However, anticipated development is not project-
related. The City acknowledged that it is reasonably foreseeable that vacant parcels within
the project impact area will be developed within 15-20 years as they continue to encourage
development in this area. Upon completion of the project, vacant parcels could transition
from their current agricultural uses to other uses such as residential and/or commercial
development. It is also probable that there will be development pressures on the existing
' large agricultural land tracts on the east side of the corridor.
' SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson
Christian School Road) from North of 23 TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

0

ii

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L
8.0 ANALYSIS RESULTS AND CUMULATIVE IMPACTS (GUIDANCE STEP VII)
Rather than induce new development on its own, TIP Project U-3823 may increase the rate
of development that is occurring in this primary growth area in Wilson. Numerous
developments in the project impact area have already been approved and platted and are
not conditional upon the improvements.
With regard to transitioning existing land uses to higher intensity uses, there is the potential
for U-3823 to induce land use changes along the corridor. This is probable because the
corridor's close proximity to and connection with more urban/commercial strips, the large
mixed use development planned at the project's northern terminus, and because of the City's
Growth Policy (Policy 6.2), which states, "Residential neighborhoods which have become
infused or closely surrounded bynon-residential uses may undergo an orderly and controlled
conversion from residential use to higher density residential use or other compatible land
uses." As such, it is reasonably foreseeable that the larger existing scattered parcels that
contain single-family homes could, over time, transition to more dense single family, multi-
family or small-scale commercial uses.
Effects from the project are more likely to be cumulative in nature. The project has the
potential for cumulative effects resulting from the incremental effects of the proposed
widening with other past projects and current and future development activities in the project
region.
Non-transportation development projects (See Section 7.2), such as the Heritage Place
mixed use development that will include a Target retail store at the US 264/SR 1158
intersection, may have impact on travel patterns in the project impact area although the
implementation of these projects is not conditional upon improvements to SR 1158. As the
industrial park expands, this will create new jobs, which may encourage additional residential
and commercial development in the project impact area and attract more internal trips within
the Wilson urban area.
The Bloomery Swamp stream crossing of SR 1158 is within 1.1 miles of a critical water
supply intake area (classified WS-IV NSW). The majority of Bloomery Swamp's watershed is
in rural, undeveloped areas outside of the City of Wilson. Within the County, Interstate 95,
US 264, and NC 42 cross Bloomery Swamp. Development of this area, together with the
proposed project, has the potential to cumulatively impact water quality in Bloomery Swamp.
Project U-3823 would replace an existing culvert over Bloomery Swamp with a bridge and
the project would be constructed in accordance with Neuse River Buffer Rules. These
measures would help to offset impacts to water quality.
Potential impacts to the nutrient sensitive waters of the Neuse River from development
activity that will occur within the study area will be limited through the application of the
Neuse Rules, NPDES permitting requirements, and City/County polices, including the
following Growth Plan policies:
Policy 10.3 -Runoff and drainage from development and agricultural activities shall be of
quality and quantity as near to natural conditions as possible, with special emphasis given to
critical watershed areas.
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson 24
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

Policy 10.11 -The development of countywide comprehensive drainage and flood
management plan, including public and private actions in support of plan implementation,
' shall be supported.

SR 1158 (Airport BoulevardNVilson
Christian School Road) from North of 25 TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

9.0 REFERENCES
City of Wilson
City of Wilson Growth Plan: 1999 Update. (Approved by the Planning Board/Adopted by the
Wilson City Council) (September 1999).
Interview with Janet Batten Holland, AICP, City of Wilson Technical Review Coordinator (and
other City Technical Review Committee members). (December 7, 2004).
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Environmental Assessment for TIP Project No. U-3823 SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard) from
North of NC 42 to US 264 in Wilson County. PDEA Branch (August 28, 2002).
Finding of No Significant Impact for TIP Project No. U-3823 SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard)
from North of NC 42 to US 264 in Wilson County. PDEA Branch (December 2003).
North Carolina Department of Transportation
FEMA Q3 Flood Maps (2004). Available online:
http://www.ncdot.org/planning/tpb/gis/DataDist/GISFEMAFIood Maps.html.
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Old Landfill Inventory. Division of Waste Management (DWM) (2004a). Available online:
httg://www.wastenotnc.org/SFHOME/IHS Landfill List.pdf.
Inactive Hazardous Sites Inventory By County. Division of Waste Management (DWM)
(2004b). Available online: httg://www.wastenotnc.orq/SFHOME/IHS County List.pdf.
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Neuse River Water Quality Management Plan. Division of Water Quality (DWQ) (2002a).
Water Quality Assessment and Impaired Waters List. Division of Water Quality (DWQ).
(2002b). Available online: http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/tmdl/General 303d.htm [April 26, 2004].
List ofActive Permits (online). Division of Water Quality (DWQ) (2004a). Available online:
http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/NPDES/documents/BIMS 092704 OOO.xIs (October 1, 2004].
SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson 26
Christian School Road) from North of TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

North Carolina Waterbodies Listed by Subbasin. Division of Water Quality (DWQ) (2004b).
Available online: http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/bims/reports/basinsandwaterbodies/03-03-06.pdf
' (April 26, 2004].
North Carolina Water Quality Assessment and Impaired Waters List (2004 Integrated 305(b)
' and 303(d) Report). Public Review Draft. Division of Water Quality (DWQ). Available online:
http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/tmdl/General 303d.htm [April 26, 2004].
Natural Heritage Program (NHP). List of Significant Natural Heritage Areas. North Carolina
Division of Parks and Recreation (1999).
' US Department of Interior
' National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). USFWS (2002). Available online:
http://www. nwi.fws. qov.
' Endangered Species List for Wilson County. USFWS (2003). Available online:
http://nc-es.fws.gov/es/cou ntyfr. html.
1 Albemarle-Pamlico Study (ALBE), National Water Quality Study (NAWQA) Ecological
Sampling Sites and Samples Collected 1991-2000. USGS (2004). Available online:
' http://nc.water.usgs.gov/albe/General/1991-2000/eco_sites.html.
' SR 1158 (Airport Boulevard/Wilson
Christian School Road) from North of 27 TIP Project No. U-3823
NC 42 to US 264 (Raleigh Road) Wilson County
FINAL ICE

FIGURES
Figure 1. Project Location
Figure 2. Study Area
Figure 3. Project Impact Area
Figure 4. Generalized Zoning
Figure 5. Notable and Natural Features

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