20161078 Ver 1_FTNP-BLRI 2A15 - signed_20161108

Categorical Exclusion Form
Blue Ridge Parkway
Alleghany County, North Carolina
Project Number: FTNP-BLRI 2A15 Date:June 21, 2016
Project Name: Repave/Repair Mainline and Overlooks for Road and Rehab Curbs,
Sidewalks, and Other Features in Section 2A
Project Description:
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), in cooperation with the National Park Service (NPS)
proposes to rehabilitate section 2A of the Blue Ridge Parkway, in Alleghany County, North Carolina.
Project will repair the pavement of the mainline parkway and associated public parking areas, pull offs,
and ramps from milepost 216 through 228.This project will also repair critical drainage devices along
roadway section 2A.
• The proposed Schedule A will include pavement overlay and repairs along the roadway and
associated ramps.
• The proposed Schedules B through D will include pavement,striping, curb and sidewalk repairs
in picnic areas and overlooks.
• The proposed Schedule E will include critical drainage repairs along the roadway and associated
ramps.
Mitigation Measures:
• As much original material as possible (keeping slate stone curbs)shall be maintained. All
resetting of stone head walls and curbs shall be done with in-kind material and with the same
workmanship.
• No work shall be allowed in the streams during trout hatching season from October 15 to April
15.
• Contractor shall obtain any permits, if required, (i.e., Corps of Engineers, etc.) and copies must
be sent to the park Environmental Protection Specialist for the Administrative Record and park
archives.
• Any work that impacts areas outside the existing road surface would need to be identified so
park biologists can survey for impacts to the plants and animals found there.
• Natural Resource Management Specialist familiar with the site shall be contacted if any
vegetation removal will take place outside the normal mow zone.
• To ensure unencumbered flow of storm water,each crossing should be inspected and debris
removed if possible.
• Project shall be accessed via motor road.Vendor shall have to stay within existing bridge load
limitations.
• Cumberland Knob Picnic Parking Area shall be closed in quarter portions for staging to allow
visitor access and use during project Fox Hunter Picnic Area Parking shall be closed in portions to
allow for continued visitor access to picnic tables and trail.Staging may be done in paved
overlooks. Consecutive use of overlooks within the project area shall not be allowed.
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• Disturbed areas shall be restored to original grade and reseeded according to the park's current
seeding specifications once paving has been completed.
• Temporary traffic control shall be utilized during road milling and paving.
Construction debris shall be disposed of at an approved landfill or other off-site approved area.
Category Used to Exclude the Action from Further NEPA Analysis:
23 CFR§771.117(c)(22)
Agency Coordination:
• The NPS categorically excluded the project from further NEPA consideration on June 17, 2016.
• On June 17,2016 the NPS determined No Effect for federally listed Threatened or Endangered
Species in accordance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
• On June 17,2016 the NPS determined No Adverse Effect on properties listed or eligible for
listing on the National Register of Historic Places in accordance with Section 106 of the National
Historic Preservation Act of 1966.
• On June 17,2016 the NPS determined the project meets criteria 3 for streamlined review under
the 2008 Servicewide Programmatic Agreement.
• The NPS has completed all necessary agency coordination in accordance with 23 CFR §771.
Determination:
On the asis of the environmental impact information in the statutory compliance file,with which I am
fam' i , I believe he prof t should be categorically excluded from further NEPA analysis.
O Ward Date
Environmental Protection Student Trainee
Federal Highway Administration
Eastern Federal Lands Highway Division
On the basis of the environmental impact information in the statutory compliance file,with which I am
familiar, I am categorically excluding the described project from further NEPA analysis. The project
meets the 23 CFR 771.117(a)definition of a categorical exclusion. No unusual circumstances per 23 CFR
771.117(b)apply.
Kevin S. Roe Date
Environmental Team Leader
Federal Highway Administration
Eastern Federal Lands Highway Division
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Appendix A: Environmental Screening Form
Water and Wetlands:
• Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
Impacts to Waters of the US: ®Yes ❑No
If Yes, approval anticipated:
®Nationwide Permit ❑Regional General Permit ❑Individual Permit
• Section 401 of the Clean Water Act
NNWPcertified byState ❑Individual Certification
• Section 402 of the Clean Water Act (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System)
Disturbance Threshold Exceeded, Permit Required?
Eyes N No
Is Stormwater Management Review/Approval anticipated?
❑Yes NNo
• ®Project is consistent with Executive Order 11900, Protection of Wetlands
Floodplains:
• N Project is consistent with Executive Order 119888, Floodplain Management
Section 4(f)of the USDOT Act:
• Meets Section 4(f) exemption for Federal lands transportation facilities under Section 1119(c)(2)
of MAP-21, U.S.C. 138(a)?
❑Yes ❑No
• Is there a Section 4(f) property in the study area?
Eyes NNo
If Yes,continue:
De Minimis Finding:❑
Programmatic:❑
Individual 4(f): ❑
Section 6(f)of the Land and Water Conservation Fund:
• Was the property purchased with grant funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund? ❑
Yes ®No
• If Yes,was documentation of approval from National Park Service Director received for the
conversion or replacement of 6(f) property? ❑Yes ❑No
Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972:
• Not in Coastal Zone N
• Concurrence with Federal Consistency Determination ❑
Right of Way:
• Project is completely within Federal right-of-way N
• Project involves relocations or easements ❑
Number of Easements Number of Relocations
Hazardous Waste and Materials:
• Area hazardous materials or contamination exceeding regulatory thresholds(as set by U.S. EPA,
County Environmental Health, etc.) present? ❑Yes NNo
Environmental Screening Form
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• If Yes, is the nature and extent of the hazardous materials or contamination fully
known?❑
If No, briefly discuss the plan for securing information:
Section 7(a)of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act:
• Are there Wild and Scenic Rivers? ❑Yes ®No
If Yes, review by river-administering agency is required.
Clean Air Act:
• Is the project in a non-attainment area? ❑Yes ®No
If Yes, is the project on the TIP/SIP? ❑ Yes ❑No
Highway Traffic and Construction Noise Regulations:
• ❑ The proposed project is a Type I project(highway on a new location, substantial horizontal or
vertical alteration, new through or auxiliary lanes). Noise analysis is required.
• ❑ The proposed project is a Type II project(retrofit for noise abatement).
• ® The proposed project is a Type III project(noise analysis not required).
Environmental Justice and Title IV Act:
• Is an Environmental Justice population, as identified in Executive Order 12898, present?
[]Yes ®No If Yes, briefly explain:
• Will the project induce disproportionately high and adverse impacts to minority, low income or
special groups? ❑Yes ®No If Yes, briefly explain:
Farmland Protection Policy Act for Highway Projects:
• Does the project displace, require acquisition of, or require an easement from farmland?
Eyes ®No
Does the project affect any additional resources? If Yes,explain below:
• ❑
Environmental Screening Form
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Appendix B: 23 CFR 771.117 FHWA Categorical Exclusions
(c)The following actions meet the criteria for CEs in the CEQ regulations (40 CFR 1508.4)and
§771.117(a)and normally do not require any further NEPA approvals by the FHWA:
❑ (1) Activities which do not involve or lead directly to construction, such as planning and research
activities;grants for training; engineering to define the elements of a proposed action or alternatives
so that social, economic,and environmental effects can be assessed; and Federal-aid system revisions
which establish classes of highways on the Federal-aid highway system.
❑ (2)Approval of utility installations along or across a transportation facility.
❑ (3) Construction of bicycle and pedestrian lanes, paths,and facilities.
❑ (4)Activities included in the State's highwaysafety plan under 23 U.S.C.402.
❑ (5)Transfer of Federal lands pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 107(d) and/or 23 U.S.C. 317 when the land
transfer is in support of an action that is not otherwise subject to FHWA review under NEPA.
❑ (6)The installation of noise barriers or alterations to existing publicly owned buildings to provide
for noise reduction.
❑ (7) Landscaping.
❑ (8) Installation of fencing, signs, pavement markings, small passenger shelters,traffic signals, and
railroad warning devices where no substantial land acquisition or traffic disruption will occur.
❑ (9)The following actions for transportation facilities damaged by an incident resulting in an
emergency declared by the Governor of the State and concurred in by the Secretary, or a disaster or
emergency declared by the President pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Act (42 U.S.C. 5121):
(i) Emergency repairs under 23 U.S.C. 125; and
(ii)The repair, reconstruction, restoration, retrofitting,or replacement of any road, highway, bridge,
tunnel, or transit facility(such as a ferry dock or bus transfer station), including ancillary
transportation facilities(such as pedestrian/bicycle paths and bike lanes),that is in operation or under
construction when damaged and the action:
(A) Occurs within the existing right-of-way and in a manner that substantially conforms to the
preexisting design,function, and location as the original (which may include upgrades to meet existing
codes and standards as well as upgrades warranted to address conditions that have changed since the
original construction);and
(B) Is commenced within a 2-year period beginning on the date of the declaration.
❑ (10)Acquisition of scenic easements.
❑ (11) Determination of payback under 23 U.S.C. 156 for property previously acquired with Federal-
aid participation.
❑ (12) Improvements to existing rest areas and truck weigh stations.
❑ (13) Ridesharing activities.
❑ (14) Bus and rail car rehabilitation.
❑ (15)Alterations to facilities or vehicles in order to make them accessible for elderly and
handicapped persons.
❑ (16) Program administration,technical assistance activities, and operating assistance to transit
authorities to continue existing service or increase service to meet routine changes in demand.
❑ (17)The purchase of vehicles by the applicant where the use of these vehicles can be
accommodated by existing facilities or by new facilities which themselves are within a CE.
❑ (18)Track and railbed maintenance and improvements when carried out within the existing right-
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FTNP-BLR12A15

of-way.
❑ (19) Purchase and installation of operating or maintenance equipment to be located within the
transit facility and with no significant impacts off the site.
❑ (20) Promulgation of rules, regulations, and directives.
❑ (21) Deployment of electronics, photonics,communications, or information processing used singly
or in combination, or as components of a fully integrated system,to improve the efficiency or safety
of a surface transportation system or to enhance security or passenger convenience. Examples
include, but are not limited to,traffic control and detector devices, lane management systems,
electronic payment equipment,automatic vehicle locaters,automated passenger counters,computer-
aided dispatching systems, radio communications systems,dynamic message signs, and security
equipment including surveillance and detection cameras on roadways and in transit facilities and on
buses.
® (22) Projects, as defined in 23 U.S.C. 101,which would take place entirely within the existing
operational right-of-way. Existing operational right-of-way refers to right-of-way that has been
disturbed for an existing transportation facility or is maintained for a transportation purpose.This area
includes the features associated with the physical footprint of the transportation facility(including the
roadway, bridges, interchanges, culverts,drainage, fixed guideways, mitigation areas,etc.) and other
areas maintained for transportation purposes such as clear zone,traffic control signage, landscaping,
any rest areas with direct access to a controlled access highway, areas maintained for safety and
security of a transportation facility, parking facilities with direct access to an existing transportation
facility,transit power substations,transit venting structures,and transit maintenance facilities.
Portions of the right-of-way that have not been disturbed or that are not maintained for
transportation purposes are not in the existing operational right-of-way.
❑ (23) Federally-funded projects:
(i)That receive less than$5,000,000 of Federal funds; or
(ii) With a total estimated cost of not more than $30,000,000 and Federal funds comprising less than
15 percent of the total estimated project cost.
❑ (24) Localized geotechnical and other investigation to provide information for preliminary design
and for environmental analyses and permitting purposes, such as drilling test bores for soil sampling;
archeological investigations for archeology resources assessment or similar survey; and wetland
surveys.
❑ (25) Environmental restoration and pollution abatement actions to minimize or mitigate the
impacts of any existing transportation facility(including retrofitting and construction of stormwater
treatment systems to meet Federal and State requirements under sections 401 and 402 of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1341; 1342)) carried out to address water pollution or
environmental degradation.
❑ (26) Modernization of a highway by resurfacing, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, adding
shoulders, or adding auxiliary lanes(including parking,weaving,turning, and climbing lanes), if the
action meets the constraints in paragraph (e) of this section.
❑ (27) Highway safety or traffic operations improvement projects, including the installation of ramp
metering control devices and lighting, if the project meets the constraints in paragraph (e)of this
section.
❑ (28) Bridge rehabilitation, reconstruction,or replacement or the construction of grade separation
to replace existing at-grade railroad crossings, if the actions meet the constraints in paragraph (e)of
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FTNP-BLR12A15

this section.
❑ (29) Purchase, construction, replacement, or rehabilitation of ferry vessels(including
improvements to ferry vessel safety, navigation, and security systems)that would not require a
change in the function of the ferry terminals and can be accommodated by existing facilities or by new
facilities which themselves are within a CE.
❑ (30) Rehabilitation or reconstruction of existing ferry facilities that occupy substantially the same
geographic footprint, do not result in a change in their functional use,and do not result in a
substantial increase in the existing facility's capacity. Example actions include work on pedestrian and
vehicle transfer structures and associated utilities, buildings, and terminals.
(d)Additional actions which meet the criteria for a CE in the CEQ regulations (40 CFR 1508.4)and
paragraph(a)of this section may be designated as CEs only after Administration approval unless
otherwise authorized under an executed agreement pursuant to paragraph (g)of this section.The
applicant shall submit documentation which demonstrates that the specific conditions or criteria for
these CEs are satisfied and that significant environmental effects will not result. Examples of such
actions include but are not limited to:
❑ (1)-(3) [Reserved]
❑ (4)Transportation corridor fringe parking facilities.
❑ (5)Construction of new truck weigh stations or rest areas.
❑ (6)Approvals for disposal of excess right-of-way or for joint or limited use of right-of-way,where
the proposed use does not have significant adverse impacts.
❑ (7)Approvals for changes in access control.
❑ (8) Construction of new bus storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for
industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning
and located on or near a street with adequate capacity to handle anticipated bus and support vehicle
traffic.
❑ (9) Rehabilitation or reconstruction of existing rail and bus buildings and ancillary facilities where
only minor amounts of additional land are required and there is not a substantial increase in the
number of users.
❑ (10) Construction of bus transfer facilities(an open area consisting of passenger shelters, boarding
areas, kiosks and related street improvements) when located in a commercial area or other high
activity center in which there is adequate street capacity for projected bus traffic.
❑ (11) Construction of rail storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for
industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning
and where there is no significant noise impact on the surrounding community.
❑ (12)Acquisition of land for hardship or protective purposes. Hardship and protective buying will be
permitted only for a particular parcel or a limited number of parcels.These types of land acquisition
qualify for a CE only where the acquisition will not limit the evaluation of alternatives, including shifts
in alignment for planned construction projects, which may be required in the NEPA process. No
project development on such land may proceed until the NEPA process has been completed.
(i) Hardship acquisition is early acquisition of property by the applicant at the property owner's
request to alleviate particular hardship to the owner, in contrast to others, because of an inability to
sell his property.This isjustified when the property owner can document on the basis of health, safety
or financial reasons that remaining in the property poses an undue hardship compared to others.
(ii) Protective acquisition is done to prevent imminent development of a parcel which may be needed
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FTNP-BLRI 2A15

for a proposed transportation corridor or site. Documentation must clearly demonstrate that
development of the land would preclude future transportation use and that such development is
imminent. Advance acquisition is not permitted for the sole purpose of reducing the cost of property
for a proposed project.
❑ (13)Actions described in paragraphs (c)(26), (c)(27), and (c)(28)of this section that do not meet the
constraints in paragraph (e) of this section.
(e)Actions described in (c)(26),(c)(27),and (c)(28)of this section may not be processed as CEs under
paragraph (c)if they involve:
(1) An acquisition of more than a minor amount of right-of-way or that would result in any residential
or non-residential displacements.
Yes ❑ No ❑
(2) An action that needs a bridge permit from the U.S. Coast Guard,or an action that does not meet
the terms and conditions of a U.S.Army Corps of Engineers nationwide or general permit under
section 404 of the Clean Water Act and/or section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899.
Yes ❑ No ❑
(3) A finding of"adverse effect'to historic properties under the National Historic Preservation Act,
the use of a resource protected under 23 U.S.C. 138 or 49 U.S.C. 303 (section 4(f))except for
actions resulting in de minimis impacts, or a finding of"may affect, likely to adversely affect'
threatened or endangered species or critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act.
Yes ❑ No❑
(4) Construction of temporary access, or the closure of existing road, bridge,or ramps,that would
result in major traffic disruptions.
Yes ❑ No❑
(5) Changes in access control.
Yes ❑ No❑
(6) A floodplain encroachment other than functionally dependent uses(e.g., bridges,wetlands)or
actions that facilitate open space use (e.g., recreational trails, bicycle and pedestrian paths);or
construction activities in, across or adjacent to a river component designated or proposed for
inclusion in the National System of Wild and Scenic Rivers.
Yes ❑ No❑
9
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FTNP-BLR12A15

National Park Service Blue Ridge Parkway
U.S. Department of the Interior Date: 06/14/2016
Categorical Exclusion Form
Project:FTP 2A15 (Repave/Repair Mainline and Overlooks for Road and Rehab Curbs,Sidewalks,and
Other Features in Section 2A)
PEPC Project Number:36519
Description of Action (Project Description):
Project will repair the pavement of the mainline parkway and associated public parking areas/pulloffs and
ramps from MP 216-228.This project will repair critical drainage devices along roadway section 2A.Project
oversight and supervision will be provided by DSC-T.Work will proceed under single lane closures using
flaggers.
Schedules
• Base schedule(A)will include pavement overlay and spot patch repairs within the mainline
roadway and associated ramps with the length of the project adjusted to be within the programmed
funds.
• Schedule B will include pavement repairs and striping at NC 1205(Cumberland Knob Picnic
Parking),NC 1000Z-High Piney Spur OL,and NC 1001Z-Fox Hunter Picnic Area.
• Schedule C will include pavement repairs and striping at NC 0219-Cumberland Knob Picnic
Access.
• Schedule D will include sidewalk and curb repairs or replacement at NC 1205,1000Z,1001Z,and
0219.
• Schedule E will include critical drainage repairs within the mainline roadway and associated ramps.
Scope of Work
• Mill(3/4" depth)and place an Ultra-thin bonded wearing course overlay on Parkway mainline
from MP 216.86 to MP 228.18.
• Bridge work:MP 222.68-Big Pine Creek Bridge#1 (075P);MP 223.05-Big Pine Creek Bridge#2
(076P);and MP 224.16-Big Pine Creek Bridge#5 (079P)-install deep pavement patches at the
approaches due to settlement.
• MP 216.8-NC 128 access ramp to NC 18 west.The two-lane,two-way,24'wide ramp's pavement
will be reconstructed.The existing stone masonry headwall for a CMP will be reset.
• MP 217.52-NC 1205-Cumberland Knob Picnic PA-this parking area will be reconstructed at the
end of the project.The parking area may be closed in quarter portions and used as a staging area.
Under a separate schedule,the existing 52"wide sidewalk(285'long on the right and 325'long on
the left)will be reconstructed and stone curb will be reset.
• NC 0219-Cumberland Knob Picnic Access-0.16 miles long.This picnic area loop road is one way,
11'wide and is off NC 1205.This loop road will be included in the project as a separate schedule.
The road and associated pulloffs/parking stalls will be reconstructed.The slate curb at the parking
stalls will be replaced with granite.Some striping will be provided at the pulloffs.
• MP 218.65-NC 1000Z-High Piney Spur OL(0.20 lane-miles) -this parking area is not striped.This
parking area will be reconstructed.The steel-backed timber surrounding the pulloff on the slope
side is substandard in height;however,since it is away from the mainline Parkway,it will not be
disturbed.
• NC 1001Z-Fox Hunter Picnic Area(0.27 lane-miles)-this area is off the High Piney Spur OL and
can be closed in portions for use as a staging area.The picnic area will be reconstructed.The
parking area has slate stone curb(4"reveal).Under a separate schedule,slate stone curb will be
replaced with granite curb and the 40-inch wide asphalt sidewalk will be reconstructed.

• MP 221,Sta.42+00—intersection here has damaged pavement because of truck traffic and will be
patched.
• MP 228.2:NC 0126ZZ,access ramp to US NC 21 (0.13 miles long) -pavement will receive a 3/4"
depth mill and overlay with a 19'x 20'pavement reconstruction(patch).Due to ditch erosion at
one location,the Park requested to extend the existing stone-paved waterway by 200 feet.
Critical Drainage Repairs to be Included in Project:
• MP 217,Sta.12+00-2 culverts are here sharing the same outlet headwall under Rte.18 ramp-the
24"x 182'CMP is separated at the joints and needs to be lined. Both culverts are a combination
of CMP/RCP. The last three 4'sections of the 18"concrete pipe were broken up and will be
replaced. The 16'x8' headwall at outlet needs to be reset or replaced with new.
• MP 217,sta. 17+80-the 43'long 18"CMP has separation,and will be lined. Top is broken off at
the outlet.
• MP 220,sta.5+10-the 18"CMP is shallow,and will be replaced. Additional survey is not needed
here, as there is no need for riprap. The headwalls will be rebuilt using existing stone;will be
replaced by a 24"culvert(at least).
• MP 220,sta.22+94-the box culvert is shown incorrectly to outlet to the inlet headwall of the 18"
culvert under the driveway,instead it shares the outlet headwall with the driveway culvert. The
driveway culvert will be removed and replaced,with the inlet headwall relocated away from the
Parkway(the existing inlet headwall shows signs of being hit by trucks). It is not recommended
replacing the inlet headwall with a drop inlet,as the headwall is historic. At the inlet,the stone
waterway will be extended to the relocated headwall,with two 4'long waterway sections being
replaced. The outlet headwall will be rebuilt around the new 18"or 24"pipe,and the pipe outlet
could remain in the same location. The box culvert is in good condition,and it shares the outlet
headwall with the pipe,and its portion of the headwall is in good condition.Enough survey exists
at this location,and additional survey is not needed.The intersection pavement is in very poor
condition and there will be a pavement patch here,as trucks cross the Parkway at this location.
• MP 220,Sta.25+25-2 sections were broken off.Needs a headwall at the outlet with riprap and
lining at the very least.May replace culvert with a bigger size as that might be cheaper.
• MP 220,Sta.34+10-there was no culvert survey done at this location,and none was needed. A
48' long 18"CMP here will be lined with a headwall rebuilt.Two(18"and 16")ash trees need to
be removed from the top of headwall.
• MP 220,Sta.50+60-the existing 18"x55'CMP draining due to sediment and will be cleaned. If
problems are noted after cleaning,the pipe will be lined.
• MP 222,Sta.44+50-a drop inlet is at PwL;no headwall at outlet and none needed.Existing
18"x48' CMP has separation at the joints and will be lined.
• MP 224,Sta.19+30-box culvert is 4'span x Trise.Existing 4'white pine tree at outlet appears to
cause pavement heaving and will be removed. Geotech team will confirm if pavement damage is
caused by tree.From 19+50 to 21+50,lot of pavement damage and there will be a 200'long,two-
lane patch added here.
• MP 224,sta.27+15-north of inlet headwall at Pw L,the existing 5' of stone waterway needs to be
reset and waterway south of inlet needs to be realigned. Inlet headwall will be repointed and
outlet headwall will be reset using existing stone.The 18"x38'CMP has flowing water and will be
replaced.
• MP 225,Sta.24+20-the 5'x4'box culvert needs a riprap basin and a cutoff wall at outlet.Debris at
culvert will be cleaned out.Park wants to align the channel at the inlet using bendway weirs.
Permits will be obtained if channel alignment,a riprap apron to be installed at the inlet.
• MP 225,Sta.34+75-two 8'x6'box culverts are located here.There is flowing water here and 20"
of scour at the outlet headwall(PwR)that needs riprap.
• MP 225,sta.45+70-the existing 18"x43'CMP will be cleaned.

41 UP 2125,sta.5a-ii A5-cad sting 18"x40'CMiP wi:l bei cdeianeid,and replaced,if needced. The drop inlellwW
remain,avid an outlet hciadwalll is not ncieided.
•� MP 2 26,sta.9+fIQ-thei 2'x2'box cu vert has 3saour ait the outlet(PwR; and wil l neied riir rap basin and a
cutoff wall.
MP X1216,sial 181+00-the skewed 6'x;1' box cuINert Has eriitical performiance:issuers and additlonal survey
:is ncieided Herci.(Slcoun pnoteicetion is neied(ic at both Heac wa Is).Hcaidwall migh t Have to be c xtendcic ait
thci out cit.
• MW 2128,Stat.22+60-the`1'x9'box culvert HE is some pavcim(int heaving ovcir it. Rc cion.mcinc cid to
provide 3'x1`I'sc 1c itivci clearing at the outlet Headwall(P-AR).
M P 2129,sta.X111+00-this culvert outlets into a rcitairving wall sit Ni R arnc has seiparation ait ciach joint and
w t ei:ince as part of th ei pro j eictl
Prajecl Locations:
Locatlon
C own . Alleghany state:
District: Highlands Section: 2A
Geo. Marker: 216-ZIS 11WIcipost) Other:
Mitigatlion(s):
• As much original maitcrial as possible(kcieping slaet(i stonci cunbs)shall bci maintained.All nescitfng of alone
Waid walls and curbs sh1all bei c onei with in-kind maitcrial and with ti a same workmlanship.
• N o world shall t ei allowcc in the strciarres during trout Hatching seiason from October 11 to A prill 19.
« Contractor shalt obtain any peirmiU,if requireid,(i.e.,Corps of F ngincers,cetci.; arec.copicis must be sent to
the park F nvironmiental Fhiotciction 91eicial:ist for the Adm inistl aedlvci Reconc anec paiik arehivcis.
Ar y work th at impaicts areias outsic ei the cixistirig road surhico wou]d neied tb bci identified so park
bi ologists can s un ey for ire paicts to the planets and animals found therci.
• N atural Resource Managcimcnl Specialist familiar with the sites sha l be contacted if any-v egeitaltlon
rcimova will W a pldcei outsidci the normial mow aonei.
• '11 lo,einsurei unenciumbcmcid flow of storms waticir,each crossing shoul d be:insNctcld and debris ncimoveid if
poss:it le.
Plrojecl shall be acKieisseid via it olor rosid.Vendor shall haver to stay within cixisting brie gle load limitaltlons.
C umbcirland Knob Picnic Parking AI ea shall t ei cl oseid in quarl er portions for stag'ng to allow visitor
access and use during projccit.Fox Huntcir P"emit Area Parking sha l be eiloseie in portions to allow for
contirlueid visiton accciss to picnic tablets and trail.Staging may bci donee in paved ow rlooks.Consccutivc
use of ovcirlooks withi n th a project areal shall not be al:oweid.
Disturbed arcias shlall bei rcistored to original graide and iieisciedcic according to the park's current seeking
specifications oncci pawing has beein comF lciteid.
• Tempc rary traffic control shlall bei utih2led during road mill ing and paivin g.
C c nstrU teflon c cbris shlall bee dispc�cid of at ane approvicec landfill or other off-site approved arcea.
CE C itation:C.51 Rcpair,resunfaicing,striping,in stallaidon of daffier control devices,reipair/replaeem ent of
gulardrails,etc.,on existing roads.
Clecisiion: I firie that the action fit:i within the calegcerical exclusion abo%a.Therelcie, I arr categorically
excluding the describec piojecl frorr further NERA arez lysiig. No extraordinary circumstances apply.
Sluperintenc eret: pale:
Woods
CateegoricW Exclusion Formi-FTA 2AVI ilRepav(014epair Mainlirie and Owmilooks for Road and Reehlab Curbs,1
Sidciwa ks,and Othcir Fceaturcis in Sectlon 21A)-AEIAC ID:3165151
Hager 31 of 4

Extraordinary Circumstances:
If implemented,would the proposal... Yes/No Notes
A.Have significant impacts on public health or safety? Yes Motor vehicles will
have safer driving
surface once project is
completed.
B.Have significant impacts on such natural resources and unique geographic No
characteristics as historic or cultural resources;park,recreation,or refuge lands;
wilderness areas;wild or scenic rivers;national natural landmarks;sole or
principal drinking water aquifers;prime farmlands;wetlands(Executive Order
11990);floodplains(Executive Order 11988);national monuments;migratory
birds;and other ecologically significant or critical areas?
C.Have highly controversial environmental effects or involve unresolved No
conflicts concerning alternative uses of available resources(NEPA section
102(2)(E))?
D.Have highly uncertain and potentially significant environmental effects or No
involve unique or unknown environmental risks?
E.Establish a precedent for future action or represent a decision in principle No
about future actions with potentially significant environmental effects?
F.Have a direct relationship to other actions with individually insignificant,but No
cumulatively significant,environmental effects?
G.Have significant impacts on properties listed or eligible for listing on the No
National Register of Historic Places,as determined by either the bureau or office?
H.Have significant impacts on species listed or proposed to be listed on the List No
of Endangered or Threatened Species,or have significant impacts on designated
Critical Habitat for these species?
I.Violate a federal,state,local or tribal law or requirement imposed for the No
protection of the environment?
Have a disproportionately high and adverse effect on low income or minority No
populations(EO 12898)?
K.Limit access to and ceremonial use of Indian sacred sites on federal lands by No
Indian religious practitioners or adversely affect the physical integrity of such
sacred sites(EO 130007)?
L.Contribute to the introduction,continued existence,or spread of noxious No
weeds or non-native invasive species known to occur in the area or actions that
may promote the introduction,growth,or expansion of the range of such species
(Federal Noxious Weed Control Act and Executive Order 13112)?
Categorical Exclusion Form-FTP 2A15 (Repave/Repair Mainline and Overlooks for Road and Rehab Curbs,
Sidewalks,and Other Features in Section 2A)-PEPC ID:36519
Page 4 of 4

National Park Service Blue Ridge Parkway
U.S. Department of the Interior Date:06/14/2016
ASSESSMENT OF ACTIONS HAVING AN EFFECT ON
HISTORIC PROPERTIES
A. DESCRIPTION OF UNDERTAKING
1. Park: Blue Ridge Parkway
2. Project Description:
Project Name: FTP 2A15(Repave/Repair Mainline and Overlooks for Road and Rehab Curbs,
Sidewalks,and Other Features in Section 2A)
Prepared by: Beth Byrd Date Prepared: 06/06/2016 Telephone: [phone]
PEPC Project Number: 36519
Locations:
Describe project:
Project will repair the pavement of the mainline parkway and associated public parking areas/pulloffs
and ramps from MP 216-228.This project will repair critical drainage devices along roadway section
2A.Project oversight and supervision will be provided by DSC-T.
Schedules
• Base schedule(A)will include pavement overlay and spot patch repairs within the mainline
roadway and associated ramps with the length of the project adjusted to be within the programmed
funds.
• Schedule B will include pavement repairs and striping at NC 1205(Cumberland Knob Picnic
Parking),NC 1000Z-High Piney Spur OL,and NC 1001Z-Fox Hunter Picnic Area.
• Schedule C will include pavement repairs and striping at NC 0219-Cumberland Knob Picnic
Access.
• Schedule D will include sidewalk and curb repairs or replacement at NC 1205,1000Z,1001Z,and
0219.
• Schedule E will include critical drainage repairs within the mainline roadway and associated ramps.
Scope of Work
• Mill(3/4" depth)and place an Ultra-thin bonded wearing course overlay on Parkway mainline
from MP 216.86 to MP 228.18.
• Bridge work:MP 222.68-Big Pine Creek Bridge#1 (075P);MP 223.05-Big Pine Creek Bridge#2
(076P);and MP 224.16-Big Pine Creek Bridge#5 (079P) -install deep pavement patches at the
approaches due to settlement.
• MP 216.8-NC 128 access ramp to NC 18 west.The two-lane,two-way,24'wide ramp's pavement
will be reconstructed.The existing stone masonry headwall for a CMP will be reset.
• MP 217.52-NC 1205-Cumberland Knob Picnic PA-this parking area will be reconstructed at the
end of the project.The parking area may be closed in quarter portions and used as a staging area.
Under a separate schedule,the existing 52"wide sidewalk(285'long on the right and 325'long on
the left)will be reconstructed and stone curb will be reset.
• NC 0219-Cumberland Knob Picnic Access-0.16 miles long.This picnic area loop road is one way,
11'wide and is off NC 1205.This loop road will be included in the project as a separate schedule.
The road and associated pulloffs/parking stalls will be reconstructed.The slate curb at the parking
stalls will be replaced with granite.Some striping will be provided at the pulloffs.
• MP 218.65-NC 1000Z-High Piney Spur OL(0.20 lane-miles) -this parking area is not striped.This
parking area will be reconstructed.The steel-backed timber surrounding the pulloff on the slope
side is substandard in height;however,since it is away from the mainline Parkway,it will not be
disturbed.

• NC 1001Z-Fox Hunter Picnic Area(0.27 lane-miles)-this area is off the High Piney Spur OL and
can be closed in portions for use as a staging area.The picnic area will be reconstructed.The
parking area has slate stone curb(4"reveal).Under a separate schedule,slate stone curb will be
replaced with granite curb and the 40-inch wide asphalt sidewalk will be reconstructed.
• MP 221,Sta.42+00—intersection here has damaged pavement because of truck traffic and will be
patched.
• MP 228.2:NC 0126ZZ,access ramp to US NC 21 (0.13 miles long) -pavement will receive a 3/4"
depth mill and overlay with a 19'x 20'pavement reconstruction(patch).Due to ditch erosion at
one location,the Park requested to extend the existing stone-paved waterway by 200 feet.
Critical Drainage Repairs to be Included in Project:
• MP 217,Sta.12+00-2 culverts are here sharing the same outlet headwall under Rte.18 ramp-the
24"x 182'CMP is separated at the joints and needs to be lined. Both culverts are a combination
of CMP/RCP. The last three 4'sections of the 18"concrete pipe were broken up and will be
replaced. The 16'x8' headwall at outlet needs to be reset or replaced with new.
• MP 217,sta. 17+80-the 43'long 18"CMP has separation,and will be lined. Top is broken off at
the outlet.
• MP 220,sta.5+10-the 18"CMP is shallow,and will be replaced. Additional survey is not needed
here, as there is no need for riprap. The headwalls will be rebuilt using existing stone;will be
replaced by a 24"culvert(at least).
• MP 220,sta.22+94-the box culvert is shown incorrectly to outlet to the inlet headwall of the 18"
culvert under the driveway,instead it shares the outlet headwall with the driveway culvert. The
driveway culvert will be removed and replaced,with the inlet headwall relocated away from the
Parkway(the existing inlet headwall shows signs of being hit by trucks). It is not recommended
replacing the inlet headwall with a drop inlet,as the headwall is historic. At the inlet,the stone
waterway will be extended to the relocated headwall,with two 4'long waterway sections being
replaced. The outlet headwall will be rebuilt around the new 18"or 24"pipe,and the pipe outlet
could remain in the same location. The box culvert is in good condition,and it shares the outlet
headwall with the pipe,and its portion of the headwall is in good condition.Enough survey exists
at this location,and additional survey is not needed.The intersection pavement is in very poor
condition and there will be a pavement patch here,as trucks cross the Parkway at this location.
• MP 220,Sta.25+25-2 sections were broken off.Needs a headwall at the outlet with riprap and
lining at the very least.May replace culvert with a bigger size as that might be cheaper.
• MP 220,Sta.34+10-there was no culvert survey done at this location,and none was needed. A
48' long 18"CMP here will be lined with a headwall rebuilt.Two(18"and 16")ash trees need to
be removed from the top of headwall.
• MP 220,Sta.50+60-the existing 18"x55'CMP draining due to sediment and will be cleaned. If
problems are noted after cleaning,the pipe will be lined.
• MP 222,Sta.44+50-a drop inlet is at PwL;no headwall at outlet and none needed.Existing
18"x48' CMP has separation at the joints and will be lined.
• MP 224,Sta.19+30-box culvert is 4'span x Trise.Existing 4'white pine tree at outlet appears to
cause pavement heaving and will be removed. Geotech team will confirm if pavement damage is
caused by tree.From 19+50 to 21+50,lot of pavement damage and there will be a 200'long,two-
lane patch added here.
• MP 224,sta.27+15-north of inlet headwall at Pw L,the existing 5' of stone waterway needs to be
reset and waterway south of inlet needs to be realigned. Inlet headwall will be repointed and
outlet headwall will be reset using existing stone.The 18"x38'CMP has flowing water and will be
replaced.
• MP 225,Sta.24+20-the 5'x4'box culvert needs a riprap basin and a cutoff wall at outlet.Debris at
culvert will be cleaned out.Park wants to align the channel at the inlet using bendway weirs.
Permits will be obtained if channel alignment,a riprap apron to be installed at the inlet.
• MP 225,Sta.34+75-two 8'x6'box culverts are located here.There is flowing water here and 20"
of scour at the outlet headwall(PwR)that needs riprap.
• MP 225,sta.45+70-the existing 18"x43'CMP will be cleaned.

• MP 225,sta.50+75-existing 18"x40'CMP will be cleaned,and replaced,if needed. The drop inlet will
remain,and an outlet headwall is not needed.
• MP 226,sta.9+80-the 2'x2'box culvert has T scour at the outlet(PwR)and will need riprap basin and a
cutoff wall.
• MP 226,sta. 18+00-the skewed 6'x2'box culvert has critical performance issues and additional survey
is needed here. (Scour protection is needed at both headwalls).Headwall might have to be extended at
the outlet.
• MP 228,Sta.22+60-the 5'x4'box culvert has some pavement heaving over it. Recommended to
provide 3'x15'selective clearing at the outlet headwall(PwR).
• MP 229,sta.20+00-this culvert outlets into a retaining wall at PwR and has separation at each joint and
will be lined as part of the project.
Work will proceed under single lane closures using flaggers.Photos and a copy of the Design Scoping Report are
attached under Step 5.
Area of potential effects (as defined in 36 CFR 800.16[d])
MP 216-228
3. Has the area of potential effects been surveyed to identify historic properties?
No
X Yes
4.The proposed action will: (check as many as apply)
No Destroy, remove, or alter features/elements from a historic structure
No Replace historic features/elements in kind
No Add non-historic features/elements to a historic structure
No Alter or remove features/elements of a historic setting or environment(inc. terrain)
Add non-historic features/elements (inc. visual, audible, or atmospheric)to a historic
No setting or cultural landscape
No Disturb, destroy, or make archeological resources inaccessible
No Disturb, destroy, or make ethnographic resources inaccessible
No Potentially affect presently unidentified cultural resources
Begin or contribute to deterioration of historic features,terrain, setting, landscape
No elements, or archeological or ethnographic resources
No Involve a real property transaction (exchange, sale, or lease of land or structures)
B. REVIEWS BY CULTURAL RESOURCE SPECIALISTS
The park 106 coordinator requested review by the park's cultural resource specialist/advisors as indicated
by check-off boxes or as follows:
[X] Archeologist
Name:Steven Kidd
Date:06/07/2016
Check if project does not involve ground disturbance [ ]
Assessment of Effect: — No Potential to Cause Effect _ No Historic Properties Affected X No
Adverse Effect Adverse Effect X Streamlined Review
Recommendations for conditions or stipulations: Previously disturbed area.No archeological testing required.
Retain as much original material as possible.Remove and reset as much original curbing as possible as opposed to
removing and replacing with new granite.
Assessment of Effect Form-FTP 2A15 (Repave/Repair Mainline and Overlooks for Road and Rehab Curbs,
Sidewalks,and Other Features in Section 2A) -PEPC ID:36519
Page 3 of 5

Doc Method: Streamlined Review(PA)
Streamlined Activity:
3.Repair/Resurfacing/Removal of Existing,Roads,Trails and Parking Areas
[X] Curator
Name:Jackie Holt
Date:06/17/2015
Check if project does not involve ground disturbance [ ]
Assessment of Effect: _ No Potential to Cause Effect _ No Historic Properties Affected X No
Adverse Effect Adverse Effect X Streamlined Review
Recommendations for conditions or stipulations:
Doc Method: Streamlined Review(PA)
Streamlined Activity:
3.Repair/Resurfacing/Removal of Existing,Roads,Trails and Parking Areas
[X] Historian
Name:Cynthia Walton
Date:06/09/2016
Check if project does not involve ground disturbance [ ]
Assessment of Effect: _ No Potential to Cause Effect _ No Historic Properties Affected X No
Adverse Effect Adverse Effect X Streamlined Review
Recommendations for conditions or stipulations:
Doc Method: Streamlined Review(PA)
Streamlined Activity:
3.Repair/Resurfacing/Removal of Existing,Roads,Trails and Parking Areas
C. PARK SECTION 106 COORDINATOR'S REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATIONS
1.Assessment of Effect:
No Potential to Cause Effects
No Historic Properties Affected
X No Adverse Effect
Adverse Effect
2. Documentation Method:
[ ] A. STANDARD 36 CFR PART 800 CONSULTATION
Further consultation under 36 CFR Part 800 is needed.
[X] B. STREAMLINED REVIEW UNDER THE 2008 SERVICEWIDE PROGRAMMATIC AGREEMENT(PA)
The above action meets all conditions for a streamlined review under section III of the 2008
Servicewide PA for Section 106 compliance.
APPLICABLE STREAMLINED REVIEW Criteria
(Specify 1-16 of the list of streamlined review criteria.)
3.Repair/Resurfacing/Removal of Existing,Roads,Trails and Parking Areas.
3. Additional Consulting Parties Information:
Additional Consulting Parties: No
4. Stipulations and Conditions:
Following are listed any stipulations or conditions necessary to ensure that the assessment of effect
above is consistent with 36 CFR Part 800 criteria of effect or to avoid or reduce potential adverse
effects.
Assessment of Effect Form-FTP 2A15 (Repave/Repair Mainline and Overlooks for Road and Rehab Curbs,
Sidewalks,and Other Features in Section 2A) -PEPC ID:36519
Page 4 of 5

Ellease netain as m ucifl origilnal mateurial as plossiblle llkeepling silal a stcm(i ciurbls).A7 resetting of sl onei
Head walls and curbs�hould ble donee with fin-kind maternal and with the samia wonkmanshiip.
S. MMgaiions/Treatmeni Measiuresr.
Measureis to prevent or min imize loss cir im pairmen t of historic/pnehistoric plroplerf els:
(Rumembler tb at fwitting, location,and use ma y tlei relevant.)
• Assessment of Ef ucit-Cultural Landscapes-As m uobl origin a] material as possible llkeeping slates
stone cuibls; sdhlaIII blei maintained.All nesettin g of stane blead mWlsand cm bs shall ble donee witl,l in-
kind material and with the samie workmansiblipl,
D. RECOMMEII'[IUD EY ACTING PAR SUCTION 106 CCICMINAITOR:
NE m e: Beth Byrd Title: A cling P w k Sactlon 106 Coordinatar
E. SL PURINTENDEb T'S APPROVAL
The proposed work confdrms to the NP5 M6inagemen f Policies and CWtura/Aeric urce Mlanag ement
Guidefine, and I have reviewed and approve the recornmeindatiomi,sti1pulatlons6, or conditions nosed in
Secton C cl this fclrmi.
Signature
Supeirintlendenit AK44iwe Dale: el•sr-/L
Mirk Woods
A;scissment of Bffact Form-FTP 2A 15(RciFlave/Rapain Mainlines and Chlenlooks for Road and Rehab Curbs,
Sidewalks,and Cther Features'ri Suction 2A; -PELF C 1 D:36919
Pagel 5 of 9