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Home My WebLink About20070221 Ver 1_Other Agency Comments_20070501 ' NC 1 6 (PROVIDENCE ROAD) FROM SR 2948 (REA ROAD EXTENSION) TO SOUTH OF INTERSTATE 465 (CHARLOTTE OUTER LOOP) ' UNION AND MECKLENBURC; COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA TIP U-251 DA FEDERAL PROJECT NO. B.1 672907 ' FEDERAL-AID PROJECT NO. STP-1 6(20) ' INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS (ICE) ASSESSMENT ADDENDUM ' PREPARED FOR: NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPDRTATION ,.~.,~ ~~~``t A~~ `~ M1; of ~Nyd MAY 2007 ' TABLE OF CONTENT5 A. Introduction and Background .................................................................................................................5 ' B. Study Area Boundary Definition .......................................................................................................... ..6 C. Study Area(s) Characteristics, Directions, and Goals ........................................................................ .. 7 ' 1. Current Land Use and Changes from 2005 to 2007 ..................................................................... .. 7 2. Population and Development Trends ............................................................................................. .. 8 Population Projections ........................................................................................................................... ..8 Development Trends .............................................................................................................................. 10 3. Community Planning ......................................................................................................................... 11 ' 4. Transportation Planning ................................................................................................................... 12 5. Water Resources and Environmental Regulations ........................................................................ 13 1 State and Federal Regulations ................................................................................................................ 13 Charlotte/Mecklenburg .......................................................................................................................... 14 Union County .......................................................................................................................................... 15 Other Regulations ................................................................................................................................... 16 D. Indirect and Cumulative Effects and Future Land Use Analysis ..................................................... 16 ' 1. Future Land Use and Induced Growth ................................................................................................ 16 Sixmile Creek Basin ................................................................................................................................. 17 ' Original Project Study Area -South of Sixmile Creek Basin ........................................................... 18 2. Analysis an Evaluation of Indirect and Cumulative Effects ........................................................ 18 ' E. ICE Addendum Conclusions ................................................................................................................ 19 F. References ................................................................................................................................................ 20 TABLES Table 1: General Population Projections .......................................................................................................9 Table 2: Population Projections for Individual Traffic Analysis Zones ..................................................10 Table 3: Transportation Projects ...................................................................................................................12 Table 4: Suintnary of Charlotte/Mecklenburg SWIM buffers ..................................................................14 Table 5: Summary of DRAFT Union County Riparian Buffers ...............................................................15 Table 6: Summary of Water Quality Rules and Regulations .....................................................................16 TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum ii ' ICE ADDENDUM TIP U-251 OA, NC 1 6 PROVIDENCE ROAD) ' UNION AND MECKLENBURG COUNTIES ' EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to widen NC 16 (Providence Road) from SR 2948 (Rea Road Extension) in Union County to south of I-485 (Charlotte Outer Loop) in Mecklenburg County. The proposed project is included in the 2007-2013 State Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as U-2510A. ' An Indirect and Cumulative Effects (ICE) report was written in September 2005 for TIP U-2510A and provided a preluninary analysis of the potential for indirect and cumulative effects associated ' with the project related to the human (land use, quality of life) and natural environment. One of the key findings in the 2005 document was that, "Induced growth associated with the project could affect the water quality of Sixmile Creek, listed as an impaired stream by the North Carolina ' Department of Natural Resources (NCDENR). Even though no individuals have been found, habitat for the federally endangered Carolina heelsplitter mussel (L~r.rmigona decorata) exists within the Sixmile Creek area downstream of the ICE project study area. Potential negative effects on water ' quality associated with induced growth from the proposed project and the existing impaired status of Sixmile Creek could indirectly affect the Carolina heelsplitter and eliminate any existing habitat for the mussel." ' In February of 2007, a freshwater mussel survey was conducted in Sixmile Creek that found Carolina heelsplitter individuals. The purpose of this report is to provide an addendum to the ' September 2005 for TIP U-2510A ICE, and to specifically assess changes in current and future land use, planning and environmental regulations, and indirect and cumulative effects associated with the project. Addirionally, an extended study area was generated to include the Sixmile Creek basin east ~ of the 2005 ICE study area. Study Area Characteristics, Directions and Goals ' Since 2005, the ICE study areas have continued to develop. The majority of land use changes have involved infill of lots in existing subdivisions, new construction in the ' northwestern portion of the 2005 ICE study area along Ardrey Kell and Tom Short Roads in Mecklenburg County, and small new residential developments along Hemby Road in Union County. ' Overall, land use in the ICE study areas can be generally described as transitional, changing over from a scattered rural agricultural and residential uses in the southern portions to more intense residential and commercial development in the north. Large tracts of single-family ' residences, open fields, and undeveloped land exist throughout the ICE study areas, especially in the southern portion. ^ The North Carolina State Data Center is projecting faster 2000-2030 growth rates for Union and Mecklenburg County than reported in the 2005 ICE report. Union County is now projected to grow at 162 percent (versus 125.5 percent in 2005) and Mecklenburg County is TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) ~ Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 1 projected to grow at a faster rate (7,688 additional persons in 2010) compared to the 2005 report. ^ The 2005 ICE study area is projected to grow at a faster rate than the extended ICE study area (110.9 percent versus 59 percent). Large gains in population are projected for Traffic Analysis Zones (TAZs) 9204, 9205, 10889, and 10902 in the 2005 ICE study area and for TAZ 10886 in the extended ICE study area. ^ Development and development pressure is ongoing in both Union and Mecklenburg County. The Town of Weddington currently has 13 new developments planned or approved (5001ots total). The majority of new growth is residential, with commercial and office developments at major intersections. ^ Several transportation projects have been completed in recent years that have provided improved access and mobility in the ICE study area, including the construction of Interstate 485 in the late 1990's, Rea Road Extension (NCDOT TIP U-2506) ,and Ardrey Kell Road construction (NCDOT TIP U-3307). ^ Sixmile Creek is listed in the Draft 2006 North Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) 303(d) list for impaired waters from its source to the South Carolina state line (8.8 miles). The stream is listed for unpaired biological integrity, with urban runoff and storm sewers as the source. ^ Session Law 2006-246, passed by the North Carolina General Assembly passed provides legislation for implementation of the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II stormwater Management Requirements for small communities in census designated urbanized areas in North Carolina. Session Law 2006-246 requires that new development and redevelopment in these areas must meet the post-construction requirements beginning July 1, 2007. ^ Session Law 2006-246 covers all jurisdictions in the ICE study areas except the Town of Weddington. Due to the lack of a municipal stormwater system, Weddington has been provided an exemption from select components of the NPDES Phase II program. However, developments in the Town Weddington must still conform to the post- construction stormwater management regulations set forth in the NPDES Phase II Program. The City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County have stormwater Ordinances in place as well as stormwater Improvement and Management (SWIM) riparian buffers consisting of 35', 50', or 100'+. Union County's stormwater ordinance is in draft form, with approval planned for July 2007. The most recent draft includes 100' (intermittent) and 200' (perennial) riparian buffers in the Sixmile Creek basin. TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 2 ' Indirect and Cumulative Effects and Future Land Use ' The 2005 ICE noted that he northern portion of the study area would build out regardless of TIP- U2510A, but that the southern end of the study area would experience induced growth. The 2005 ICE future land use map depicts certain areas that have developed in uses other ' than those predicted. For example, a large tract along Hemby Road designated for commercial land use has developed into residential subdivisions. ^ Since TIP U-2510A is a widening project, it does not provide any new access to currently ' undeveloped or underdeveloped land. The proposed project will generate some travel time savings based on alleviating congestion, and this could have an affect on the southern section of the project study area. The majority of new land use changes will be in the form of ' low to medium density residential developments. Cumulatively, U-2510A along with the construction of I-485 and other major and local road projects, has or will induce new growth, and the rate of growth, in the area. ' The future land use map has been updated for the ICE addendum to show future land use based on trends since 2005, locally adopted land use plans, zoning, Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization (MUMPO) TAZ population projections, and potential project induced and cumulative growth in the recent past or near future. ^ A large portion of the Sixmile Creek basin area is already developed or developing with a ' mix of uses to include commercial nodes at major intersections and large, medium and low density residential developments exist, or are planned, to the west of the proposed project. TAZ 10889, in the Sixmile Creek basin along the eastside of NC 16 is still mostly undeveloped south of I-485 . It is projected to grow from 94 persons to 3,400 (2000-2030). The current adopted land use in this area calls for medium and high density residential development. According to local planners, development pressure on parcels in this area is high, and developers are inquiring about numerous types of and use. Complimentary commercial development could be a possibility in this area based on its location adjacent to the I-485 interchange at NC 16. The overriding factor as to why these parcels have not been developed is that some are still owned by local land owners who have not sold their property, and the construction of U-2510A could provide additional pressure for these owners to sell. ^ The ICE study area south of Sixmile Creek basin is the area most likely to see induced growth from U-2510A, as travel tune savings will be more evident in this area. Cumulatively, U-2510A along with the Rea Road Extension, could increase development pressure. ^ While U-2510A could induce some pressure for complimentary development (i.e. commercial), local planners are in agreement that land in the area will eventually build-out with or without U-2510A, and that the project may only increase the rate of development. Existing and planned stormwater protection measures, slated to take place in July of 2007 may assist in minimizing project induced growth effects on water quality in the Sixmile Creek basin and the endangered Carolina heelsplitter mussel. The portion of the Sixmile Creek basin in Mecklenburg County is in part protected by local stormwater ordinances and riparian buffers. TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 4 ' ICE ADDENDUM TIP U-251 OA, NC 16 (PROVIDENCE ROAD) ' UNION AND MECKLENBURG COUNTIES ' A. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND The NCDOT proposes to widen NC 16 (Providence Road) from SR 2948 (Rea Road Extension) in ' Union County to south of I-485 (Charlotte Outer Loop) in Mecklenburg County. The proposed project is included in the 2007-2013 TIP as U-2510A. The project area includes portions of the City of Charlotte, Town of Weddington, and unincorporated areas of Mecklenburg and Union County ' (Figure 1). The proposed project will widen the existing two-lane facility to a four-lane divided, 73.5- foot face-to-face curb and gutter section with a 17.5-foot raised median throughout the project. This cross section provides for 12-foot inside travel lanes and 14-foot outside travel lanes in both ' directions. The wide outside lanes will accommodate bicycle traffic. The total length of the project is 3.1 miles. ' In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the indirect and cumulative effects of U-2510A were assessed (URS Corporation, 2005). This report provided a prelimuiary analysis of the potential for indirect and cumulative effects associated with TIP U-2510A, ' specifically related to the human (land use, quality of life) and natural environment (biotic communities, threatened/endangered species, Waters of the United States, and water quality). Key findings of the report are briefly summarized below: ' The project will make the ICE study area, especially the southern portion, more attractive for further development. Considered cumulatively with other recently completed and ' planned projects in the area, currently undeveloped land will be more accessible. ^ Project induced growth is expected to have a moderate effect on the natural and human environment in the study area. ' Substantial fragmentation of habitat due to project encroachment-alteration is not anticipated. However, project induced growth may negatively affect natural communities. ' Induced growth associated with the project could affect the water quality of Sixmile Creek, listed as an "impaired" stream by the North Carolina Department of Natural Resources (NCDENR). Even though no individuals have been found, habitat for the federally ' endangered Carolina heelsplitter mussel (Larmigona decorata) exists within the Sixmile Creek area downstream of the ICE project study area. Potential negative effects on water quality associated with induced growth from the proposed project and the existing "impaired" ' status of Sixmile Creek could indirectly affect the Carolina heelsplitter and eliminate any existing habitat for the mussel. ^ Adherence to stormwater programs currently in place will help to mitigate effects on water ' quality associated with development. NPDES stormwater management plan administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and state/local regulations, and stormwater measures such as vegetative buffers are examples of mitigation measures. The City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County have stormwater policies in place. Union County has a draft stormwater management plan. TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) ' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 5 A freshwater mussel survey was conducted in Sixmile Creek in February 2007 (The Catena Group, 2007). The study found three live Carolina heelsplitter mussels and three shells approximately 3.5 miles from the project limits and 1.25 miles downstream from the ICE Study Area (Figure 1). Based on the September 2005 U-2510A ICE Assessment conclusions and findings of potential indirect and cumulative affects to the Carolina heelsplitter habitat, it was determined by the NCDOT that an update be conducted as an addendum for the original ICE report. This report is intended to provide an update to the September 2005 U-2510 ICE Assessment (2005 ICE) by providing the most recent data and information related to indirect and cumulative effects of the project including developments and changes in: ^ Land use since mid-2005 ^ Population estimates and development trends ^ Community plans and goals ^ Transportation projects ^ Water quality and environmental regulations ^ Future land use ^ Indirect and cumulative effects As part of the update, an extended ICE study area was generated and analyzed for indirect and cumulative impacts. The extended ICE study area includes the Sixmile Creek basin east of the 2005 ICE study area (see Figure 1). Based on NCDOT's and NCDENR's Guidance for Assessing Indirect and Cumulative Impacts of Transportation Projects in North Carolina, an evaluation of potential indirect and cumulative impacts, including project induced growth, was conducted for the 2005 ICE study area and the extended ICE study area. B. STUDY AREA BOUNDARY DEFINITION As noted in Section A, this report utilizes two study areas for the update and reevaluation of indirect and cumulative effects: the original September 2005 U-2510A ICE Assessment study area and an extended ICE study area comprised of the Sixmile Creek basin east of the 2005 ICE study area. Refer to Figure 1 for study area boundaries. The 2005 ICE used TAZs provided by the MUMPO to define the study area boundary due to their size and availability. The TAZ data included population projections from 2000-2030 that can be used as a tool in assessing future growth. Individual TAZs that make up the 2005 ICE study area include: 9204, 9205, 9210, 9211, 9277, 9279, 10889, 10902, 10903, and 10904. To maintain consistency between study area data, the extended ICE study area was developed from TAZ boundaries. Additionally, the Sixmile Creek basin eastern boundary shares a common boundary with the TAZ boundaries, allowing for a consistent analysis area. Individual TAZs that make up the extended ICE study area include: 9278, 10884, 10885, 10886, and 10890. The combined ICE study areas encompass approximately 18 square miles and include portions of several jurisdictions including: Union and Mecklenburg Counties, the City of Charlotte, and the TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum ' Town of Weddington. A large portion of the ICE study areas in Union County is located in the Town of Weddington. Similarly, a substantial portion of the ICE study areas in Mecklenburg County ' fall within the Charlotte city limits. C. STUDY AREA CHARACTERISTICS DIRECTIONS AND C30ALS ' 1 . CURRENT LAND USE AND CHANI3E5 FROM 2005 TO 2007 ' To assess changes in land use patterns since mid-2005, the most recent Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data layers were obtained from Union and Mecklenburg Counties (April 2007). Parcel-level land use for both counties was broken down into generalized categories for consistency ' across all municipalities and jurisdictions. Additionally, a field visit was conducted in May 2007 to verify and inventory land use in the ICE study areas. The Charlotte metropolitan area has witnessed substantial growth in the past 20-plus years. ' Development in the region has been widely scattered and has generally taken place to the north and south of Charlotte, including the U-2510A ICE study areas. The construction of I-485 and the in the 1990's, along with other recent regional road projects, and has spurred growth and growth pressures in southern Mecklenburg County and northwest Union County. Land use in the ICE study areas can be generally described as transitional, changing from a scattered ' rural agricultural and residential uses in the southern portions to more intense commercial and residential development in the north (see Figure 2). Large tracts of single-family residences, open fields, and undeveloped land exist throughout the ICE study areas, especially in the southern ' portion. One large area of undeveloped or large tract single family residences exists along the west side of NC 16 in Mecklenburg County. Grocery store-anchored commercial developments are present at the intersection of major roads, and include Rea Village at the intersection of NC 16 and ' Ardrey Kell Road and Weddington Corners at the intersection of NC 16 and NC 84 (Weddington Road). ' Since mid-2005, most land use changes have involved infill of lots in existing subdivisions, new construction in the northwestern portion of the 2005 ICE study area along Ardrey Kell and Tom Short Roads in Mecklenburg County, and small new residential developments along Hemby Road in ' Union County (see Figure 2). Specific new developments and projects constructed or undergoing construction since 2005 include: ' An approximately 450 acre subdivision named Stone Creek Ranch along Ardrey Kell and Tom Short Roads currently under construction by Centex Homes. Stone Creek Ranch will include 1,330 residential units at build out {select phases are currently built or undergoing construction). ^ Flat Branch Elementary School along Tom Short Road (currently under construction). ^ Saddlebrook Village subdivision along Tom Short Road (currently under construction). ' A mixed commercial and office development named The Fountains at the intersection of Tom Short and Ardrey Kell Roads (constructed). ' Providence Forest subdivision along Hemby Road in Union County (some units built, others undergoing construction). TIP U-2510, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects addendum ^ Avery Creek subdivision along Hemby Road in Union County (some units built, others undergoing construction). Land use in the extended ICE study area is a mix of medium and high residential development south of I-485, with the Colonel Francis Beatty Park comprising a large tract in the center (see Figure 2). The park consists of 256 acres and has outdoor recreation facilities, a large lake, and trails. Land use north of I-485 in the extended ICE study area consists of mixed residential and institutional uses, such as churches and schools, along McKee Road. 2. POPULATION AND DEVELOPMENT TRENDS Population Projections Population projections from 2000-2030 were generated in ten year increments in the 2005 U-2510A ICE at the state, county, and local levels. Since 2005, the North Carolina State Data Center has updated projections for the state and county. Projections for the 2005 ICE study area and (comprised of TAZs) and the Town of Weddington have remained the same. Table 1 shows the updated projections, and includes projections for the extended ICE study area. TIP U-2510, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects addendum 8 New Development in the TIP U-2510 ~ ICE Study Areas TABLE 1 : GENERAL POPULATION PROJECTIONS Total Geography 2000 2010 2020 2030 Percent Chan e North Carolinas 8,046,485 9,349,175 10,709,704 12,090,086 50.3 Mecklenburg 695,370 900,146 1,111,435 1,335,182 92.0 Coun Union Coun s 123,772 191,434 254,953 324,271 162.0 2005 ICE study 8,770 12,157 15,379 18,494 110.9 areab Extended ICE 2,380 2,918 3,389 3,785 59.0 stud areab Weddington= 6,696 8,400 Not Not Not available available available aSource: NC State Data Center-5/2007, Source: Meclaenburg-Union MPO-2004, Source: Town of Weddington,-2002 The State of North Carolina is now projected to grow at a slower rate than listed in the 2005 ICE (50.3 percent versus 54.9 percent). However, population in rapidly developing Union County is now projected to grow at a faster rate between 2000 and 2030 (162 percent versus 125.5 percent). Mecklenburg County is expected to grow at the same rate (92 percent) as projected in 2005. ' However, growth is projected to occur at a faster rate (7,688 more persons in 2010) than the projections reported in 2005. Population projections for individual TAZs through 2030 in both the 2005 ICE study area and extended ICE study area are shown in Table 2. Population projections for the individual TAZs were generated by the Center for Applied GIS at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC) in December 2004. Select factors for input into the population projection model included developable residential land, population change, water/sewer availability, travel time to employment concentrations, and an expert panel. The projections have not changed since the 2005 ICE. As shown in Table 2, the 2005 ICE study area is projected to grow at a faster rate than the extended ICE study area (110.9 percent versus 59 percent). Large gains in population are projected for TAZs 9204, 9205, 10889, and 10902 in the 2005 ICE study area and for TAZ 10886 in the extended ICE study area. Figure 3 shows all TAZ zones and highlights the high growth areas. The TAZ projections are used to help determine future project induced growth in Section D1, Future Land Use. TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum TABLE 2: POPULATION PROJECTIONS FDR INDIVIDUAL TRAFFIC ANALYSIS ZONES TAZ Number 2000 2010 2020 2030 Total Percent Chan e 9204 253 433 765 1,096 333.2 9205 562 1,034 1,466 1,925 242.5 9210 721 787 874 1,009 39.9 9211 2,342 2,880 3,161 3,542 51.2 9277 330 398 461 555 68.2 9279 264 290 348 436 65.2 10889 97 1,264 2,446 3,403 3408.2 10902 31 818 1,526 2,146 6822.6 10903 2,236 2,273 2,306 2,326 4.0 10904 1,934 1,980 2,026 2,056 6.3 Tota12005 Stud~~ 8,770 12,157 15,379 18,494 110.9 Area 9278 317 400 451 526 65.9 10884 482 545 601 642 33.2 10885 881 947 1,005 1,046 18.7 10886 258 480 682 845 228.2 10890 442 546 650 726 64.3 .`Total Evtended 2,380 2,918 3,389 3,785 59.0 IeE stud area 'Total of All 11,150 15,075 18,768 22,279 99.8 Stud Areas Source: Mecklenburg-Union MPO, ?004 Development Trends Since the late 1990's, the northwestern portion of Union County and the southern portion of Mecklenburg County have experienced tremendous growth. The construction of I-485 in the 1990's and the completion of several other transportation improvements, along with the strength of Charlotte's regional economy have spurred this growth. Within the ICE study areas, most development has occurred since the completion of I-485 according to local planners. Since 2005, the ICE study area has continued the development trend from dispersed single-family residences and agricultural or forested lands to residential subdivisions and commercial/office developments. According to planners from Charlotte and Weddington, interest in undeveloped or underdeveloped land is surging, and the development pressure is considered by both as high. Development in the Charlotte/Mecklenburg County portion of the ICE study areas can be best described as mixed, including residential and commercial/office growth. Large tracts of land in the northwestern portion of the ICE study areas are currently under development as discussed in Section C1. According to the local planners, a large swath of land (approximately 500 acres) along the east side of NC 16 from I-485 south to the Union County line is experiencing a large amount of development pressure from outside interests. The land is currently subdivided into several large TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 10 tracts of privately owned parcels and is planned as asingle-family residential area in the future. However, developers have continually inquired about changing the proposed use to commercial or high-density residential uses. According to the local Charlotte/Mecklenburg planner, mixed use development is planned just south of I-485 along the west side of NC 16. Development in the Union County portion of the ICE study areas is mainly in the Town of Weddington. According to the Town of Weddington planner, the town is experiencing high growth pressure, mostly in the form of residential subdivisions. There are currently over 5001ots in 13 separate developments under review or recently approved in the Town of Weddington. According to the local planner, the Town of Weddington leadership and citizens would like to maintain their existing character, and to that end, zoning and land use restrictions limit development to a one dwelling unit per acre average. Commercial development would be acceptable only to the immediate vicinity of the existing Weddington Corners shopping plaza. However, in the unincorporated Union County portion of the study area, commercial development is proposed in the area along the newly improved Rea Road and Tom Short Road. 3. COMMUNITY PLANNING The 2005 ICE listed and provided discussion for all relevant plans and ordinances in place for jurisdictions in the ICE study areas. With the exception of the Union County Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO), all plans and ordinances listed below are still valid: Charlotte /Mecklenburg ^ Charlotte-Mecklenburg General Development Policies ^ 2015 Master Plan ^ 2000 Providence Road/I-485 Plan Town of Weddington ' 2002 Land Use Plan ^ Weddington Zoning Ordinance Union County ' Union County Landuse Ordinance ^ 2006 Union County APFO The 2006 Union County APFO establishes standards for timing and phasing of new developments are based on the carrying capacity of public facilities (i.e. schools). The ordinance can limit construction in a select development to no more than ten dwelling units per year if existing public facilities cannot carry the anticipated new growth. TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 11 4.TRANSPDRTATIDN PLANNING Transportation projects that are located in the vicinity of U-2510A, and that could have a combined cumulative effect on growth in the area, are listed in Table 3. Changes occurring since the 2005 ICE are noted. TABLE 3: TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS Project ID and Listed Description Type Status in 2005 Re ort~ NCDOT TIP U-2506: Rea New Road Complete Yes Road, From I-485 to NC 16 NCDOT TIP U-3307:Ardrey New Road Complete Yes Kell Road, From US-521 to NC 16 NCDOT TIP R-4902: I-485 Widening ROW: FY 2011, No widening, From I-77 to US 521 Construction: FY 2013 NCDOT TIP R-0211EC: I-485 New ROW: FY 2008, No new interchange at SR 3468 Interchange Construction: FY 2011 eddin ton Road NCDOT TIP U-3467: Rea New Road Section A (funded): Yes Road Extension, NC 16 to NC ROW FY 2011, 84 Construction FY 2013; Sections B and C unfunded NCDOT TIP R-3802: Rea Widening Unfunded Yes Road Extension in Weddington to NC 75. MUMPO : Ardrey Kell New Road Planned 2020. Yes Extension, From NC 16 to Tille Morris Road Source: NCDOT 2007-2013 TIP, Mecklenburg-Union MPO The completion of TIP U-2506 and TIP U-3307 have provided residents and travelers in the ICE project study areas alternative routes west and access to I-485 at the Rea Road interchange. New projects listed in the 2007-2013 NCDOT TIP-include R-4902 and R-0211EC. Anew interchange at Weddington Road (R-0211EC) will provide another access point to I-485 and another alternative route in the eastern portion of the ICE study areas. Widening I-485 between US 521 and I-77 (R-4902) will alleviate a congestion point along the 485 corridor and provide easier movement into Charlotte and points west. TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 12 ' 5.WATER RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS ' The U-2510A ICE study areas are subject to numerous federal, state, and local stormwater and environmental regulations related to growth. Growth and development have a direct, indirect, and cumulative affect on water resources by increasing the amount of stormwater runoff. Left ' unchecked, this runoff can have negative affects on water bodies in and downstream of new development. The U-2510A ICE study areas are located in the Catawba River Basin (03-08-38 Subbasin). ' Sixmile Creek is listed in the Draft 2006 North Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) 303(d) list for impaired waters from its source to the South Carolina state line (8.8 miles). The ' 303(d) list is a product of the Clean Water Act, which requires states to identify those waters that do not meet water quality standards or which have impaired uses. Sixmile Creek is listed for impaired biological integrity, with urban runoff and storm sewers as the source. The Sixmile Creek basin ' encompasses a large portion of the U-2510A ICE study areas (see Figure 4). A specific and comprehensive discussion of water resources is included in the 2005 ICE ' Assessment. However, some changes have occurred in water resource and stormwater regulations since the report. The following water quality regulations are currently in place for the U-2510A ICE study areas. ' State and Federal Regulations ' Federal Phase II NPDES Rules In 2006, the North Carolina General Assembly passed Session Law 2006-246, which provides ' legislation for implementation of NPDES Phase II stormwater Management Requirements for small communities in census designated urbanized areas in North Carolina. Larger municipalities over 100,000 in population, including Charlotte, were covered under NPDES Phase I requirements established in 1990. In addition to permitting requirements for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s), the act established post-construction stormwater management requirements for development activities in areas outside of the permitted MS4s. Session Law 2006-246 requires that ' new development and redevelopment in these areas must meet the post-construction requirements beginning July 1, 2007. Permits under this program will be issued by the NCDWQ under the State stormwater Permitting Program to regulate the design, construction, operation and maintenance of ' required measures. Measures include: ^ Public education and outreach on stormwater impacts. ' Public involvement/participation. ^ Illicit discharge detention and elimination. ' Construction site stormwater runoff control. ^ Post-construction stormwater management in new development and redevelopment. ' Pollution prevention/good housekeeping for municipal operations. Session Law 2006-246 covers all jurisdictions in the ICE study areas except the Town of ' TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 13 Weddington. Due to the lack of a MS4, Weddington has been provided an exemption from select components of the NPDES Phase II program. However, developments in the Town Weddington must still conform to the post-construction stormwater management regulations set forth in the NPDES Phase II Program. North Carolina Division ofLand Resources -Sediment and Erosion Control Act This act requires that any person planning to disturb more than one acre of land must submit a Sedimentation and Erosion Control Plan to the Division of Land Resources. Local governments may review and enforce the program within their jurisdiction, but the program has to be at least as strict as the Division of Land Resources program. Charlotte and Mecklenburg County have Sediment and Erosion Control Acts that fit under this category. Charlotte /Mecklenburg Charlotte stormwater and Pollution Ordinance/Mecklenburg County Surface Water Pollution Control Ordinance The ordinances above are in place to meet the requirements associated with the NPDES Phase II stormwater permitting process. Surface Water Improvement and Management (SWIM) Stream Buffer Regulations The SWIM initiative establishes buffer zones along creeks and streams in the City of Charlotte, unincorporated Mecklenburg County, and other Mecklenburg County jurisdictions. The buffers provide a measure to reduce excess stormwater runoff and serve as a filter for sediment, bacteria, and other chemicals from entering creeks and streams. The SWIM buffers vary in width depending on drainage area and consist of three zones: stream side, managed use, and an upland zone. The stream side zone is to be left undisturbed. Limited clearing and limited recreation uses (greenways, etc) can be conducted in the managed use zone. The upland zone can include light uses such as storage buildings and gazebos, but is encouraged to be left as undisturbed forest. The SWIM buffers were implemented in 1999. Table 4 provides the specifics of the SWIM buffers adopted for the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg Counties. TABLE 4: SUMMARY OF CHARLOTTE/MECKLENBURG SWIM BUFFERS Drainage Area Stream Side Managed Use Upland Zone. Total Buffer Width (each side Designation Zone (ft) Zone (ft) (ft) of stream h >= 100 acres 20 None 15 35 >= 300 acres 20 20 10 50 25 ft. plus 50% 100 ft. plus 50% of the FEMA of the area of the >- 640 acres 30 45 fringe beyond FEMA fringe 100 ft. be and 100 ft. Source: Charlotte/Mecklenburg Storm Water Services TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 14 Within the ICE study areas, Sixmile Creek and Flat Branch Creek have 100-foot or wider buffers, while smaller tributaries have 35 foot and 50 foot buffers. See Figure 4 for SWIM buffer locations. Union County Union County Draft Stormwater Ordinance The Union County Stormwater Ordinance sets forth regulations designed to meet the requirements associated with the NPDES Phase II stormwater permitting process. Additionally, the ordinance establishes riparian buffer zones along streams and creeks in an effort to reduce stormwater runoff from development and protect water features. Table 5 presents the draft riparian buffers for Union County (including all municipalities). TABLE S: SUMMARY OF DRAFT UNION COUNTY RIPARIAN BUFFERS Stream Stream Side Upland Zone Total Buffer Jurisdiction Zone ft ( ~ ~~ Width (each side and T e of stream ft Intermittent 30 0 30 Perennial 30 20 50 Perennial - 100 ft. plus 85% Drainage Area > 50 50 of the remaining 640 acres flood frin e area Intermittent - 100 ft. plus 85% Duck, Goose, 100 0 of the remaining Waxhaw, and flood fringe area Sixmile Basins Intermittent - 200ft. plus 85% of Duck, Goose, 200 0 the remaining Waxhaw, and flood fringe area Sixmile Basins Source: Union County Storm~y~ater Department According to the Union County Stormwater Engineer, the draft stormwater ordinance is still awaiting comment and approval by the Planning Board and County Commissioners. The larger buffers were added in for Sixmile Creek in the latest draft. The goal is to have the stormwater ordinance passed in time for the NPDES Phase II regulations, which are to take effect on July 1, 2007. '1 he NCDWQ is working with Union County to implement and enforce the 100-foot and 200-foot riparian buffers for Sixmile and Goose Creeks until asite-specific plan can be developed and approved. Table 6 provides a summary of water quality rules and regulations for jurisdictions in the U-2510A ICE study areas. TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 15 TABLE 6: SUMMARY OF WATER QUALITY RULES AND REGULATIONS Jurisdiction' Stream Suffers (ft} Stormwater Re lations NPDES Phase II Conformi Ci of Charlotte 35/50/100+ Yes Yes Mecklenbur Coun 35/50/100+ Yes Yes Town of Weddin ton N/A, Will fall under Union Coun Plan N/A, Will fall under Union Coun Plan Exempt (but post- construction measure a 1 Union Coun 30/50/100+/200+ Draft Yes ul 1, 2007 Other Regulations Throughout the ICE study areas, Federal Emergency Management Act (FEMA) 100-year floodplain exists. All the jurisdictions in the ICE study areas have regulations in place to discourage development in the 100-year floodplain. Since the 2005 ICE, updated floodplain data has been created by the North Carolina Floodplain Mapping Program for Union County. However, Mecklenburg County has not been updated as of yet. The 100-year floodplains are shown on Figure 4. D. INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECT8 AND FUTURE LAND USE ANALYSIS 1 FUTURE LAND USE AND INDUCED GROWTH In the 2005 ICE, future induced growth effects were measured and mapped and the following assessment was made: "The increased capacity in transportation will ultimately lead to further development within the study area. Taking into account the existing land use and zoning regulations and population projections; the future land use projections....demonstrate that the vast majority of the study area is expected to be built out. The majority of the land within the northern portion of the study area (near I-485) is currently built upon or there are developments forthcoming. However, the land at the southern end of the project corridor, and immediately south of the project corridor, will experience more development as a result of the increased roadway capacity" Since 2005, the project study area has continued to develop, and according to local planners, development pressure has elevated. Figure 25 in the 2005 ICE depicts future land use as it relates to U-2510A induced growth with population projections, existing land use, zoning, and other factors. Certain areas of the future land use map have developed in uses other than those shown. For example, a large tract along Hemby Road designated for commercial land use has developed into residential subdivisions. With that in mind, the future land use map has been updated for this addendum to show future land use based on trends since 2005, locally adopted land use plans, zoning, MUMPO TAZ population projections, and potential project induced and cumulative growth in the recent past or near future. TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 16 ' Figure 5 depicts the ICE study areas with proposed future land use highlighted. In actuality, all of this land may not develop as planned, but the following assumptions have been made related to the ' project areas: ^ Existing and approved residential subdivisions will build out before large new tracts of homes. ' Existing land use involving recreation, commercial, and mixed uses will retain the same use in the future. ' The Town of Weddington will retain its residential character, while commercial and mixed uses will be generated in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, or unincorporated Union County. ^ Large undeveloped or underdeveloped tracts of land (larger than five acres) in the southern ' portion of the study area or in close proximity to the proposed project have the greatest potential for new developments. ' Growth will occur in portions of the study area affected by other transportation improvements; cumulatively with TIP U-2510A. ^ Development will not occur in riparian buffers, flood zones, or other environmentally sensitive ' areas. ^ Areas that constitute large tracts of developable land and are located in growth areas defined by the TAZ population will potentially develop. ' The following paragraphs analyze and assess future land use in Sixmile Creek basin area (includin g the extended ICE study area).and the remaining portion of the 2005 ICE study area. ' Sixmile Creek Basin ' The Sixmile Creek basin area covers the northern portion of the ICE study areas and is in both Mecklenburg and Union Counties. A large portion of this basin area is already developed or developing with a mix of uses to include commercial nodes just south of I-485 on NC16, at the ' intersection of Ardrey Kell Road and Tom Short Road, along Rea Road Extension, and at the intersection of NC 16 and NC 84. Large, medium and low density residential developments exist, or are planned, to the west of the proposed project. The Colonel Francis Beatty Park, comprised of 256 acres, is also in the northeastern part of this area. Three TAZ zones are projected for rapid growth in this area. TAZ 10902 and TAZ 10886 are in ' areas that are currently seeing new growth (since 2005). These areas are far enough north in the study area to be effected by other transportation and location factors for growth. However, TAZ 10889 along the eastside of NC 16 is still mostly undeveloped south of I-485. It is projected to ' increase from 94 persons in 2000 to over 3,400 in 2030. The current adopted land use in this area calls for medium and high density residential development. According to local planners, development pressure on parcels in this area is high, and developers are inquiring about numerous ' types of and use. Complimentary commercial development could be a possibility in this area based on its location adjacent to the I-485 interchange at NC 16. The overriding factor as to why these parcels have not been developed is that some are still owned by local land owners who have not sold ' their property. The construction of U-2510A could provide additional pressure for these owners to sell. One land owner in particular owns over 250 acres in TAZ 10889 along the east side of NC 16. TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 17 Further south in the Sixmile Creek basin, Weddington is experiencing ongoing growth. Even though the TAZ growth projections in this area are moderate, four developments are in the approval or planning phases and other developments are currently under construction. Large tracts of land are underdeveloped in this area and the combination of U-2510A, Rea Road Extension to the north, and the future Weddington Road interchange with I-485 may have a cumulative effect on resources in this area. Original Project Study Area -South of Sixmile Creek Basin South of the Sixmile Creek basin area, Union County becomes more rural in character. As discussed in the 2005 ICE, this is the area most likely to see induced growth from U-2510A, as travel tune savings will be more evident in this area. Cumulatively, U-2510A along with the Rea Road Extension project will provide increased capacity and access to this portion of Union County Both TAZ zones in this area, 9204 and 9205 are projected to experience substantial growth. Many large underdeveloped or undeveloped tracts of land also exist m this area and are highlighted in Figure 5. 2. ANALYSIS AN EVALUATION OF INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS The 2005 ICE determined that the most indirect and cumulative impacts related to the project would be associated with project induced growth. The document states induced growth could have a negative indirect and cumulative effect on biotic communities, threatened and endangered species, water quality, and the human environment (quality of life, noise levels). In February of 2007, the federally endangered Carolina heelsplitter mussel was found downstream of the ICE study areas, highlighting a need to reassess the project in relation to induced growth and growth controls in regards to water quality. In regards to indirect and cumulative effects on threatened and endangered species, The 2005 ICE states "Induced growth associated with the project could affect the water quality of Sixmile Creek and thus indirectly could affect the mussel. Considered cumulatively, the current impaired state of the creek combined with effects on the water quality from indirect growth could eliminate any existing habitat for the mussel in Sixmile Creek." In re-assessing indirect and cumulative effects of the project, two main topics must be analyzed. The first is how much induced growth will occur due to TUP U-2510A as a single project and cumulatively with other projects. The second is to what extent federal, state, and local planning and environmental regulations temper any impacts associated with induced growth and the subsequent growth's affect on water quality. Induced growth for a single project is difficult to quantify. Each project is its own entity and changes in regional economies, path of development, planning measures, and growth restrictions can have a large affect on induced growth. Since the original ICE document was completed in 2005, the region around U-2510A has continued to grow and experience growth pressures. Also, since U-2510A is a widening project, it does not provide any new access to currently undeveloped or underdeveloped land. The proposed project will generate some travel time savings based on alleviating congestion, and this could have an affect on the southern section of the project study area. Numerous other local roads in the project area have been completed or provide an additional path north towards Charlotte and include: Rea Road, Tom Short Road, Tilley Morris Road, and TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 18 ' Weddington Road. While U-2510A could induce some pressure for complimentary development (i.e. commercial), local planners are in agreement that land in the area will eventually build-out with ' or without U-2510A, and that the project may only increase the rate of development. Future land use plans have anticipated U-2510A and have planned land use accordingly. The majority of new land use changes will be in the form of low to medium density residential developments. ' Cumulatively, U-2510A along with the construction of I-485 and other major and local road projects, has or will induce new growth, and the rate of growth, in the area. Since 2005, federal, state, and local planning and environmental regulations have continued to move forward. Beginning July 1, 2007, the NPDES Phase II Stormwater Program will be implemented in all project area jurisdictions with the exception of Weddington. However, Weddington will still fall under post-construction requirements. The Draft Union County Stormwater Ordinance and the NCDWQ propose to implement 100-foot and 200-foot buffers in the Sixmile Creek basin. The portion of the Sixmile Creek basin in Charlotte/Mecklenburg County is regulated by stormwater ' ordinances and SWIM riparian buffers. If the above regulations are implemented and enforced, the indirect effect on water quality in the Sixmile Creek basin and the subsequent indirect and cumulative effect on the Carolina heelsplitter may be tempered. ' E. ICE ADDENDUM CDNCLUSIDNB The proposed project will likely, and already has to a degree, induce some growth. However, local ' planners are all in agreement that the land in the area will build-out with or without U-2510A, and that the project may only increase the rate of development. The construction of I-485 in the late 1990's, improvements and construction of major arterial roads, as well as the geographically ' advantageous location within the Charlotte region are spurring tremendous growth pressures on land in the project area. ' Since the 2005 ICE was completed, numerous developments have been constructed in the ICE study areas. Plans for new developments have also continued to be submitted. However, numerous tracts of largely undeveloped land remain in the ICE study areas and are projected to be built-out in the next 20 years. With the exception of some commercial nodes, the majority of land use in the ICE study areas is planned as low and medium density residential developments. Existing and planned Stormwater protection measures, slated to take place in July of 2007 may assist in tninitnizing project induced growth effects on water quality in the Sixmile Creek basin and the endangered Carolina heelsplitter mussel. The portion of the Sixmile Creek basin in Mecklenburg ' County is in part protected by local stormwater ordinances and riparian buffers. The portion of the Sixmile Creek basin in Union County is currently not protected by any measures. It is anticipated the County will adopt some measures (NPDES Phase II, Union Stormwater Ordinance) by July 1, 2007. ' Additionally, the majority of the Union County portion of the Sixmile Creek basin is located in the Town of Weddington. Weddington is dedicated to maintaining a rural residential character and thus has zoning and land use restrictions in place to limit development densities to one unit per acre. 1 TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 19 F. REFERENCE8 The Catena Group. Freshwater Mussel Survey for Ecosystem Enhancement Program, Six Mile Creek Tributary & Wetland Restoration Site. Hillsborough, NC. February 2007. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Planning Commission. South District Plan, Adopted Land Use Map. 1993 (updated through January 2006). North Carolina Department of Transportation. Guidance for Assessing Indirect and Cumulative Impacts of Transportation Projects in North Carolina. Vol. I and II. Raleigh, NC: The Louis Berger Group, Inc. 2001. North Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ). 2002b Final and 2006 Draft. North Carolina Water Quality Assessment and Impaired Waters List (2002 Integrated 305(b) and 303(d) Report). North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality; Raleigh, NC. Town of Weddington. Land Use Plan. 2002 (updated through September 2006). University of North Carolina Charlotte, Center for Applied GIS. Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization Population Projections and Employment; Allocations 2000-2030. Charlotte, NC. December 2004. URS Corporation. NCDOT TIP U-2510A Indirect and Cumulative Effects Assessment; NC 16 (Providence Road) From SR 2948 in Union County to South of I-485 in Mecklenburg Coun .Morrisville, NC. September 2005. TIP U-2510A, NC 16 (Providence Road) Indirect and Cumulative Effects Addendum 20 ' ` '"' ` ~ ~ r~~~ ~ i~ ~~ k. i ~~- 2047 na heesy;litter f~ca!~on Figure 1: ICE Study Areas NC 16 (Providence Road) ICE 1'lddendum Mecklenburg & Union Counties TIP No. U-2510 May 2007 ®®~®®®t TIP U-2510A Main Roads Roads Notable Water Features x. Extended ICE Study Area 2005 ICE Study Area r County Boundary ___ _-- Unincorporated Union County ';r~, Unincorporated Mecklenburg County City of Charlotte Town of Weddington 0 0.5 1 2 Miles Map Soun:es~, Cnion Counry,, NC: blecklenbucg Count, NC: Mecblenbutg-Union DII'0: The Catena Group NCDOT i o~~~,~ , t~ M U L K E Y Fo~Pa~ed ~ ort.~r ; - Study Area Counties a North Carolina Counties Figure 2: Existing Land Use NC 16 (Providence Road) ICE l~ddendum Mecklenburg & Union Counties TIP No. U-2510 May 2007 ®®~i~i TIP U-2510A -Main Roads --- Roads ._~_.m Notable Water Features Sixmile Creek Basin (in ICE Study Area) Extended ICE Study Area 2005 ICE Study Area ~~~ County Boundary Existing Landuse ® Commeraal Office Public/Institutional Low Density Residential Medium Density Residential High Density Residential Recreation/Open Space Undeveloped/Underdeveloped New Developments Since 2005 0 0.5 1 2 Miles Map Souses: l'nion Count, NC: nlecklenbucg County, NC: Mecklenburg-Cnion bC'0: Town of l~'eddington : Cit of Chadotte~, NCDOT t ' ~ ~ C v Prepared I/ ^o ~JJ f.J i~ i For: `',~`, - Siudy Area Counties 0 North Carolina Counties Figure 3: ICE Study Area TAZs NC 16 (Providence Road) ICE Addendum Mecklenburg & Union Counties TIP No. U-2510A May 2007 Notable Water Features ~~®®®e TIP U-2510A Main Roads Roads 11~~~~~Extended ICE Study Area i 2005 ICE Study Area 2000-2030 TAZ Growth (%) u~~.,- 0%-50% ®50%-100% ®100%-500% Greater than 500% County Boundary 0 0.5 1 2 Miles Dfap Sources: Union Countp, NC: 61ecLlenburg Counts, N C Mecldenhurg-Union DIl'O:NCDOT .~~ ~~ M U L K E Y Prepared For: i ~,~ J,,, Study Area Counties North Carolina Counties Figure 4: Water Features NC 16 (Providence Road) ICE addendum Mecklenburg & Union Counties TIP No. U-2510~~ May 2007 ®®®®~a TIP U-25101 Streams Main Roads Roads Water Bodies SWIM Riparian Buffers ® 100-Year Floodplain 2005 ICE Study l~rea Extended ICE Study I~rea 0 Sixmile Creek Basin (in ICE Study ~-~rea) County Boundary 0 0.5 1 2 Miles blap Sources: l'nion County, NC: Mecklenburg County, NC : Mecdlenburg-Cnion b1P0, N®OT: NC floodplain Mapping Program: NCDG~ Q M.o„ t ,,; , M U L K E Y FrlPared i ~. ~\, -Study Area Counties North Carolina Counties ~e°~" ~c~ G° oc Jc~ a Figure 5: Proposed/Future Landuse NC 16 (Providence Road) ICE Addendum 1lecklenburg & Union Counties TIP No. U-2510A May 2007 ®®®®~ TIP U-2510A -Main Roads -- Roads -a--Notable ~`Gater Features County Boundary a Sixmile Creek Basin (in ICE Study Area) Extended ICE Study Area 200 ICE Study Area Proposed/Future Landuse ® Commercial/Office (~ Public/Institutional 0 Conservation Residential (Weddington) Low Density Residential Medium Density Residential High Density Residential Recreation/Open Space Approved/Planned Developments ® Developable Areas 0 0.5 1 Z Miles b4ap sources: Union Counn', NC: blecUenburg Counts, N C :Mecklenburg-Cnion DIl'0: Gtr aE Chazlotte, NC: Toan of ~eedington, NC NCDOT: NC Floodplain h4apping Program: NCDIT Q ~,.,~, .- k, M U L K E Y ForPared ~ '} .. ;, 1... Study Area Counties 0 North Carolina Counties