Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout20111101_Memorandum of Understanding_20090416A NCDENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Water Quality Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman Governor Director Secretary April 16, 2009 MEMORANDUM To: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator, Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs From: Brian Wrenn, Division of Water Quality, Transportation Permitting Unit Subject: Comments on the Finding of No Significant Impact related to proposed widening of SR 1006 (Howard Gap Road) from existing US 64 to Existing SR 1539, Henderson County, Moving Ahead Project MA14181R. This office has reviewed the referenced document dated March 13, 2009. The NC Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities that impact Waters of the U.S., including wetlands. It is our understanding that the project as presented will result in impacts to jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and other surface waters. NCDWQ offers the following comments based on review of the aforementioned document: Project Specific Comments: NCDWQ has no specific comments for this project at this time. General Comments: The environmental document shall provide a detailed and itemized presentation of the proposed impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping. If mitigation is necessary as required by 15A NCAC 21-1.0506(h), it is preferable to present a conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan with the environmental documentation. Appropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to issuance of a 401 Water Quality Certification. 3. Environmental assessment alternatives shall consider design criteria that reduce the impacts to streams and wetlands from storm water runoff. These alternatives shall include road designs that allow for treatment of the storm water runoff through best management practices as detailed in the most recent version of Stormwater Best Management Practices, such as grassed swales, buffer areas, preformed scour holes, retention basins, etc. 4. After the selection of the preferred alternative and prior to an issuance of the 401 Water Quality Certification, the NCDOT is respectfully reminded that they will need to demonstrate the avoidance and minimization of impacts to wetlands (and streams) to the maximum extent practical. In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules (15A NCAC 2H.0506(h)), Transportation Permitting Unit 1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650 Location: 2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 Phone: 919-733-17861 FAX: 919-733-6893 Internet: http:llh2o.encstate.nc.ustacwedandsl NorthCarolina Naturally An Equal Opportunity 1Affirmative Action Employer mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 1 acre to wetlands. In the event that ; mitigation is required, the mitigation plan shall be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values. The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as wetland mitigation. 5. In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules ( 15A NCAC 2H.0506(h)), mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 150 linear feet to any single perennial stream. In the event that mitigation is required, the mitigation plan shall be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values. The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as stream mitigation. 6. Future documentation, including the 401 Water Quality Certification Application, shall continue to include an itemized listing of the proposed wetland and stream impacts with corresponding mapping. 7. NCDWQ is very concerned with sediment and erosion impacts that could result from this project. NC DOT shall address these concerns by describing the potential impacts that may occur to the aquatic environments and any mitigating factors that would reduce the impacts. 8. An analysis of cumulative and secondary impacts anticipated as a result of this project is required. The type and detail of analysis shall conform to the NC Division of Water Quality Policy on the assessment of secondary and cumulative impacts dated April 10, 2004. 9. NC DOT is respectfully reminded that all impacts, including but not limited to, bridging, fill, excavation and clearing, and rip rap to jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and riparian buffers need to be included in the final impact calculations. These impacts, in addition to any construction impacts, temporary or otherwise, also need to be included as part of the 401 Water Quality Certification Application. 10. Where streams must be crossed, NCDWQ prefers bridges be used in lieu of culverts. However, we realize that economic considerations often require the use of culverts. Please be advised that culverts shall be countersunk to allow unimpeded passage by fish and other aquatic organisms. Moreover, in areas where high quality wetlands or streams are impacted, a bridge may prove preferable. When applicable, DOT should not install the bridge bents in the creek, to the maximum extent practicable. 11. Whenever possible, NCDWQ prefers spanning structures. Spanning structures usually do not require work within the stream or grubbing of the streambanks and do not require stream channel realignment. The horizontal and vertical clearances provided by bridges shall allow for human and wildlife passage beneath the structure. Fish passage and navigation by canoeists and boaters shall not be blocked. Bridge supports (bents) shall not be placed in the stream when possible. 12. Bridge deck drains shall not discharge directly into the stream. Stormwater shall be directed across the bridge and pre-treated through site-appropriate means (grassed swales, pre-formed scour holes, vegetated buffers, etc.) before entering the stream. Please refer to the most current version of NCDWQ's Stormwater Best Management Practices. 13. Sediment and erosion control measures shall not be placed in wetlands or streams. 14. Borrow/waste areas shall avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practical. Impacts to wetlands in borrow/waste areas will need to be presented in the 401 Water Quality Certification and could precipitate compensatory mitigation. 15. The 401 Water Quality Certification application will need to specifically address the proposed methods for stormwater management. More specifically, stormwater shall not be permitted to discharge directly into streams or surface waters. 16. Based on the information presented in the document, the magnitude of impacts to wetlands and streams may require a Nationwide permit application to the Corps of Engineers and corresponding 401 Water Quality Certification. Please be advised that a 401 Water Quality Certification requires satisfactory protection of water quality to ensure that water quality standards are met and no wetland or stream uses are lost. Final permit authorization will require the submittal of a formal application by the NCDOT and written concurrence from the NCDWQ. Please be aware that any approval will be contingent on appropriate avoidance and minimization of wetland and stream impacts to the maximum extent practical, the development of an acceptable stormwater management plan, and the inclusion of appropriate mitigation plans where appropriate. 17. If concrete is used during construction, a dry work area shall be maintained to prevent direct contact between curing concrete and stream water. Water that inadvertently contacts uncured concrete shall not be discharged to surface waters due to the potential for elevated pH and possible aquatic life and fish kills. 18. If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, the site shall be graded to its preconstruction contours and elevations. Disturbed areas shall be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and appropriate native woody species shall be planted. When using temporary structures the area shall be cleared but not grubbed. Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other mechanized equipment and leaving the stumps and root mat intact allows the area to re-vegetate naturally and minimizes soil disturbance. 19. Placement of culverts and other structures in waters, streams, and wetlands shall be placed below the elevation of the streambed by one foot for all culverts with a diameter greater than 48 inches, and 20 percent of the culvert diameter for culverts having a diameter less than 48 inches, to allow low flow passage of water and aquatic life. Design and placement of culverts and other structures including temporary erosion control measures shall not be conducted in a manner that may result in dis-equilibrium of wetlands or streambeds or banks, adjacent to or upstream and down stream of the above structures. The applicant is required to provide evidence that the equilibrium is being maintained if requested in writing by NCDWQ. If this condition is unable to be met due to bedrock or other limiting features encountered during construction, please contact NCDWQ for guidance on how to proceed and to determine whether or not a permit modification will be required. 20. If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they shall be designed to mimic natural stream cross section as closely as possible including pipes or barrels at flood plain elevation, floodplain benches, and/or sills may be required where appropriate. Widening the stream channel should be avoided. Stream channel widening at the inlet or outlet end of structures typically decreases water velocity causing sediment deposition that requires increased maintenance and disrupts aquatic life passage. 21. If foundation test borings are necessary; it shall be noted in the document. Geotechnical work is approved under General 401 Certification Number 3687/Nationwide Permit No. 6 for Survey Activities. 22. Sediment and erosion control measures sufficient to protect water resources must be implemented and maintained in accordance with the most recent version of North Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control Planning and Design Manual and the most recent version of NCS000250. . 23. All work in or adjacent to stream waters shall be conducted in a dry work area. Approved BMP measures from the most current version of NCDOT Construction and Maintenance Activities manual such as sandbags, rock berms, cofferdams and other diversion structures shall be used to prevent excavation in flowing water. 24. While the use of National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps, NC Coastal Region Evaluation of Wetland Significance (NC-CREWS) maps and soil survey maps are useful tools, their inherent inaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform onsite wetland delineations prior to permit approval. 25. Heavy equipment shall be operated from the bank rather than in stream channels in order to minimize sedimentation and reduce the likelihood of introducing other pollutants into streams. This equipment shall be inspected daily and maintained to prevent contamination of surface waters from leaking fuels, lubricants, hydraulic fluids, or other toxic materials. 26. Riprap shall not be placed in the active thalweg channel or placed in the streambed in a manner that precludes aquatic life passage. Bioengineering boulders or structures shall be properly designed, sized and installed. 27. Riparian vegetation (native trees and shrubs) shall be preserved to the maximum extent possible. Riparian vegetation must be reestablished within the construction limits of the project by the end of the growing season following completion of construction. The NCDWQ appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on your project. Should you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact Brian Wrenn at 919-733-5715. cc: Dave Baker, US Army Corps of Engineers, Asheville Field Office Clarence Coleman, Federal Highway Administration Mark Davis, Division 14 Environmental Officer Chris Militscher, Environmental Protection Agency (electronic copy only) Marla Chambers, NC Wildlife Resources Commission Mike Parker, NCDWQ Asheville Regional Office File Copy Department of Environment and Natural Resources Project Review Form Project Number: 09-0258 County: Henderson Date Received: 03/24/2009 Due Date: 4/22/2009 Project Description: Finding of No Significant Impact - SR 1006, Howard Gap Road, From US 64 to SR 1539 (Jackson Road). WBS Element 38629, Project MA14181 R Regional Office Regional Office Area In-House Review Asheville Air _ Soil & Water _ Marine Fisheries _ Fayetteville Water _ Coastal Management _ Water Resources _ Mooresville Aquifer Protection _ Wildlife _ Environmental Health _ ? Wildlife - DOT Solid Waste Mgmt Raleigh Land Quality Engineer _ _ Forest Resources Radiation Protection Washington _ _ _ Land Resources Other Wilmington _ _ - Parks & Recreation Winston-Salem _ Water Quality /.,Water Quality - DOT-•, Air Quality Sign-Off/Region: Date: In-House Reviewer/Agency: Response (check all applicable) No objection to project as proposed. _ No Comment Insufficient information to complete review _ Other (specify or. attach comments) If you have any questions, please contact: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator at melba.mcgee@ncmail.net MHy?U 2009 vP I SR 1006 (Howard Gap Road) From US 64 to SR 1539 (Jackson Road) Henderson County WBS Element 38629 North Carolina Moving Ahead Project MA14181R ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT In compliance with the North Carolina State Environmental Policy Act OF 1971 NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS Or Tit APPROVED: 3-i3-o9 Date Mark Davis, Division 14 Environmental Mqn > 5 206, 3 ;_ r SR 1006 (Howard Gap Road) From US 64 to SR 1539 (Jackson Road) Henderson County "S Element 38629 North Carolina Moving Ahead Project AIA14181R ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IWACT January 2009 Documentation Prepared by TGS Engineers: •.?`? CARp David G. Modli Jr. P D. PE .•••O?,?H C??q O?q •FESslo ( -1 Planning Engineer .??? ?•?; 1, d • SE G. M 0,3 ,,Jill as w0o PROJECT COMMITMENTS SR 1006 (Howard Gap Road) From US 64 to SR 1539 (Jackson Road) Henderson County WBS Element 38629 North Carolina Moving Ahead Project MA14181R Highway Division 14 In addition to the Nationwide Permit No. 14, the General Nationwide Permit Conditions, Section 404 Only Conditions, Regional Conditions, State Consistency Conditions, Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters, NCDOT's Guidelines for Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal, General Certification Conditions and Section 401 Conditions of Certification, the following special commitments have been agreed to by NCDOT: The proposed project is located in the Tennessee Valley Authority's (TVA) Land Management District. If the bridge is replaced along existing alignment, as proposed, an approval under Section 26a of the TVA Act will not be needed. However, TVA will review final bridge design plans to confirm this determination. The on-site, temporary detour to be utilized during the replacement of Bridge No. 222 will be immediately north of and parallel to existing Howard Gap Road. GREEN SHEET MA14181R ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT January 2009 PAGE 1 OF 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 1. TYPE OF ACTION .............................................................................. I 11. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION .........................................2 111. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS .............................4 IV. ACTIONS REQUIRED BY OTHER AGENCIES ..............................6 V. COORDINATION AND COMMENTS ..............................................7 A. Circulation of Environmental Assessment ................................. 7 B. Written Comments Received on Environmental Assessment.... 7 Vl. REVISIONS TO ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT ...................10 A. Recommended Alternative ....................................................... 10 B. Revisions to the Environmental Assessment ............................ 1 1 VII. ONLY PRACTICABLE ALTERNATIVE WETLAND FINDING.. 13 VIII. BASIS OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ..................14 TABLES Table S-1. Summary of Potential Impacts ................................................... 5 Table 1. STIP Projects Complementing SR 1006 Improvements.......... 10 FIGURES 1. Project Vicinity Map 2A, 2B. Existing Conditions SR 1006 (Howard Gap Road) From US 64 to SR 1.539 (Jackson Road) Henderson County WBS Element 38629 North Carolina Moving Ahead Project N A1418IR ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT In compliance with the North Carolina State Environmental Policy Act OF 1971 Prepared by NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS DIVISION 14 1. TYPE OF ACTION This is a North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) administrative action in compliance with the State Environmental Policy Act of 1971, Finding of No Significant impact. The NCDOT has determined this project will not have any significant impact on the human and natural environment. This FONSI is based on the Environmental Assessment (EA), which has been evaluated by the NCDOT and determined to adequately and accurately discuss the environmental issues and impacts of the proposed project. The EA provides sufficient evidence and analysis for determining that an Environmental Impact Statement is not required. The NCDOT takes full responsibility for the accuracy, scope and content of the EA. ' 11. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), Division of Highways, proposes to widen SR 1006 (Howard Gap Road) in Henderson County from US 64 to Jackson Road (SR 1539) just south of Fletcher, a distance of 7.15 miles. The proposed project is to widen the existing 20-foot pavement to 24 feet paved roadway with 2-foot, full depth, paved shoulders. The total shoulder width will be 6 feet in cut and 6 feet in till except where additional width is needed for guardrail. The cut ditch will be 8 feet wide. Three bridges, Nos. 22, 40 and 222, will- be replaced as part of the proposed widening in order to provide a uniform project width. In three selected sections, excessively sharp curves will be improved to meet design speed standards. (Figure 1) Current travel demand (AADT) on SR 1006 within the project limits ranges between 6,300 and 9,000 vehicles per day and is expected to increase to 12,500 to 17,400 vehicles per day in 2030. There are currently four signalized intersections in the study corridor: (1) US 64 EB, (2) US 64 WB, (3) Naples Road, and (4) Fletcher Elementary School Driveway. With existing 2005 traffic, these intersections operate at Level of Service (LOS) A or B. With the exception of Brookside Camp Road, LOS C, the remaining eighteen unsignalized intersections operate at LOS A. Once SR 1006 is improved to a standard two-lane cross section with left-turn lanes at selected intersections, the unsignalized intersection are expected to operate at LOS A or B with 2025 traffic with the exception of Brookside Camp Road, LOS F. The signalized intersections at US 64 are expected to operate at LOS F; Naples Road, LOS C; and Fletcher Elementary School Driveway, LOS B. With 2025 traffic, turn lanes will be required at US 64 EB and WB, SR 1513 (Nix Road), SR 1622 (North Clear Creek Road), SR 1503 (Clear Creek Road) and SR 1539 (Jackson Road). Currently Brookside Camp Road is a 4-way stop controlled intersection. Future improvements should include signalization and appropriate turn lanes. Based on a detailed traffic analysis, five of the eighteen unsignalized intersections in the studied corridor were found to warrant an exclusive left turn lane. These locations are at SR 1513 (Nix Road), SR 1622 (North Clear Creek Road), SR 1503 (Clear Creek Road), SR 1528 (Brookside Camp Road) and SR 1539 (Jackson Road). Within Henderson County, SR 1006 functions as a Collector roadway, providing an alternative travel corridor to I-26 between Hendersonville and Fletcher. In addition, within the studied corridor, there are seven (7) churches, two (2) hospitals, two (2) health care providers, three (3) schools, and a fire and rescue facility. In reality, the Howard Gap Road corridor is a fully developed linear community. Currently a major new subdivision is being constructed across from the Fletcher Elementary School. The improvement of Howard Gap Road to a standard two-lane roadway with usable shoulders will be in keeping with its function as a Collector roadway and will provide a safer cross section for the traveling public. 2 The total crash rate on SR 1006 within the project study area is 374 accidents per 100 million vehicular miles (mvm) traveled. This crash rate is slightly higher than both the statewide average of 341 accidents per mvm for secondary roads and the Division 14 rate for secondary roads of 372 accidents per mvm. There were no fatal crashes during the three-year reporting period from 1/2001 through 12/2003. Of the 159 reported accidents, 46 involved hitting a fixed object, 26 involved rear end collisions, 25 involved left turns, 16 involved running off the road and 10 involved sideswipes. A wider roadway with usable shoulders should help prevent a portion of the accident types cited above. There are three (3) school facilities in the study corridor. The Fletcher Elementary School is one of the Henderson County Public Schools and relies on school busses to transport a majority of its students. An improved roadway cannot help but benefit school traffic and contribute to the safety of the community's children. The total cost estimates for the widening of Howard Gap Road are given below. The costs include right of way and construction costs (2007 dollars) but do not account for any wetland or stream mitigation costs. Right of Way $ 1,500,000 Construction Part A 4,800,000 Part B 6,300,000 Total $ 12,600,000 The proposed project is an approved project in the North Carolina Moving Ahead Program. Right of way is currently scheduled to be completed in State Fiscal Year 2009, and construction is scheduled for State Fiscal Year 2010. 3 III. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS This project will not have a significant impact to farmland. Based on review of aerial photography, the proposed project will not impact farm operations. The project will not split any farm operations or displace any facilities used for farming operations. Acquisitions will occur contiguous to existing claimed right of way. Access to farming operations will not be permanently impacted. This project is a minor widening project, generally about the centerline of the existing roadway. There are no anticipated relocatees. There are no recorded right of ways along the proposed project; however, NCDOT will claim back-to-back of existing maintained ditches. The proposed right of way is 60 feet. The owners of the minor right of way needed along each side of Howard Gap Road will be compensated. The project is not expected to cause change in the economic condition of the project study area. The project as proposed will not generate environmental justice issues. This project is anticipated to create no relocatees. No low-income or minority populations are being affected by disproportionately high or adverse impacts. This project is not anticipated to create any permanent adverse effects on the air quality of this attainment area or to cause permanent noise impacts. NCDOT biologists Anne Burroughs, Matt Haney, and N. Medlin visited the project on February 15 and 16, 2007. All streams that were evaluated were located within the French Broad River Basin. Howard Gap Road in the project area crosses several unnamed small streams and ditches. The lack of suitable instream habitat and the fact that no mussels of any species were found during this or prior surveys indicate that the Appalachian elktoe and oyster mussel do not occur in the project footprint. This is further supported by the lack of records in the area for either of these species in the N.C. Natural Heritage Program and N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission databases. Given this information, construction of the proposed project will have no effect on the Appalachian elktoe or the oyster mussel. Jurisdictional wetlands in the project study area total 0.115 acres as shown in Table] 4 in the Environmental Assessment This total would be the maximum wetland acreage to be impacted by the proposed project. There are no impacts to historic architectural or archaeological resources. 4 Table S-1. Summary of Potential Impacts Recommended Alternative Length (mi.) 7.15 miles Railroad Crossings None Residential Relocations None Business Relocations None Major Utility Crossings None Septic Fields Impacted 2 Historic Sites None Archaeological Sites None Cemeteries None Wetland Impacts 0.115 acres Stream Impacts 376 100-year Floodplain Crossings One, Clear Creek Water Supply Watershed Crossings None Hazardous Spill Basin Areas None Trout Waters None per NC WRC Impacted Noise Receptors None Federally Protected Species No Impacts State Listed Species No Impacts Prime, Unique and Important Farmland NA Low Income Population Impacts None Minority Population Impacts None Construction Cost (millions) 11.1 Right of Way Cost (millions) 1.5 Total Cost (millions) 12.6 W. ACTIONS REQUIRED BY OTHER AGENCIES Because impacts to jurisdictional surface waters and wetlands are anticipated, in accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C 1344), a permit will be required from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for the discharge of dredged of fill material into "Waters of the United States." Due to the scope of the proposed project, the USACE has determined that the project may be permitted with a Nationwide Permit No. 14. The proposed project is located in the Tennessee Valley Authority's (TVA) Land Management District. If the bridge is replaced along existing alignment, as proposed, an approval under Section 26a of the TVA Act will not be needed. However, TVA will review final bridge design plans to confirm this determination. A North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) Section 401 Water Quality Certification is required prior to the issuance of the Section 404. Section 101 Certification allows surface waters to be temporarily impacted for the duration of the construction or other land manipulations, and ensures that the state's water quality standards will not be violated. 6 V. COORDINATION AND COMMETNS A. Circulation of the Environmental Assessment The NCDOT approved the State EA on September 22, 2008. The approved EA was circulated to the following federal, state and local agencies for review and comments by the NCDOT. An asterisk (*) indicates a written response was received from the agency. Copies of the correspondence received are included in Appendix A of this document. Responses to substantial comments are noted in Section B of this Chapter. United States Army Corps of Engineers - Wilmington and Asheville United States Environmental Protection Agency *United States Fish and Wildlife Service United States Forest Service - Asheville Tennessee Valley Authority - Environmental Management *North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission Henderson County Fire Marshall Land of Sky Rural Planning Office *North Carolina State Clearinghouse B. Written Comments Received on the Environmental Assessment United States Fish and Wildlife Service Comment: The Fish and Wildlife Service expresses concern that the indirect and cumulative effects have not be adequately addressed and desires the application of low impact development techniques along the project corridor. Response: The proposed project is a safety project that will widen an existing 20-foot pavement to 24 feet of pavement with 2-foot paved shoulders almost exclusively along the existing alignment. No additional capacity will be created. The roadway will create no further inducements for development. A significant portion of the current undeveloped land is owned by the Asheville Agricultural School and Mountain Sanitarium and is likely to remain undeveloped. With respect to LID development techniques, development outside the right of way is governed by regulations and ordinances that are the purview of local officials. With reference to the NCDOT'approved screening methodology (Purple Book), this project would not have moved past the initial screening relative to an indirect and cumulative effects study. 2. North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission Comment: The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission commented on fishery resources and rare aquatic life. "In it we describe the fishery resources, 7 important game fish, and rare aquatic life that may be negatively impacted by the project". Response: As was described in the EA, NCDOT biologists Anne Burroughs, Matt Haney, and N. Medlin visited the project on February 15 and 16, 2007. All streams that were evaluated were located within the French Broad River Basin. Howard Gap Road in the project area crosses several unnamed small streams and ditches. The lack of suitable instream habitat and the fact that no mussels of any species were found during this or prior surveys indicate that the Appalachian elktoe and oyster mussel do not occur in the project footprint. This is further supported by the lack of records in the area for either of these species in the N.C. Natural Heritage Program and N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission databases. Given this information, construction of the proposed project will have no effect on the Appalachian elktoe or the oyster mussel. Comment: Further comments expressed concern "the potential secondary and cumulative effects and that additional regulations or ordinances are necessary to adequately protect water quality in this watershed". Response: This project is a safety project that proposes to widen I Toward Gap Road from an existing 20-foot pavement to a 24-foot pavement with 2-foot paved shoulders. Development regulations and ordinances are the purview of local officials. Comment: Finally, as pointed out, there is a typo within the third paragraph on page 26 of the EA under Indirect and Cumulative Impacts. Response: The correct sentence should be "The most significant period of change was between 1993 and 2003 .11 3. North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (Clearinghouse) Comment: Individual locations of estimated stream impacts were requested by the Division of Water Quality. Response: It is estimated that a total of 376 linear feet of stream bank will be impacted by the proposed project at the following individual locations: Station 46+85 14 feet Station 122+54 22 feet Station 231+64 12 feet Station 232+55 20 feet Station 290+21 40 feet Station 291+42 105 feet Station 292+04 75 feet 8 Station 316+77 336 feet Station 318+86 28 feet Station 374+00 24'feet Total 376 feet 4. Division of Emergency Management, Office of Geospatial and Technology Management (Clearinghouse) Comment: The Office of Geospatial and Technology Management requested clarification relative to flood studies related to this project. Response: A full flood study will be conducted at Clear Creek in conjunction with the design of the proposed new bridge. Depending on the results, a no-rise certification or the approval of a Conditional Letter of Map Revision will be obtained. The bridge over Featherstone Creek has been completed under NCDOT Bridge Replacement Project B-3662 as a separate project. No additional flood studies will be undertaken at this location. As stated, Beyers Creek does not have a defined floodplain and its floodplain is not regulated under the Flood Insurance Program. A flood study is not required although a prudent bridge design will be undertaken. 9 VI. REVISIONS TO ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT A. Recommended Alternative The Recommended Alternative is to widen SR 1006 (Howard Gap Road) in Henderson County from US 64 to Jackson Road (SR 1539) just south of Fletcher, a distance of 7.15 miles. The proposed project is to widen the existing 20-foot pavement to 24 feet paved roadway with 2-foot, full depth, paved shoulders. The total shoulder width will be 6 feet in cut and 6 feet in fill except where additional width is needed for guardrail. The cut ditch will be 8 feet wide. Three bridges, Nos. 22, 40 and 222, will be replaced as part of the proposed widening in order to provide a uniform project width. In three selected sections, excessively sharp curves will be improved to meet design speed standards. (Figures 1, 2A and 213). Table 1. Summary of Recommended Alternative Criteria 2-Lane Rural Undivided Type of Terrain Rolling Design Vehicle WB-50 Design Speed Sta 1 1+12 to Sta 169+95 50 mph Sta 193+40 to Sta 272+30 40 mph Sta272+30 to Sta 301+00 30 mph Sta 301+00 to Sta 376+40 40 mph Minimum Radius of Curvature 758 fr., 444 ft., 214 fr., 444 ft Maximum Grade 9 percent, 10 percent, 10 percent, 10 percent Number of Lanes Two Pavement Width 12 feet Shoulder Width 6 feet Paved Shoulder Width 2 feet Right-of-Way Width 60 feet Access Control None Level of Service C Relocations None Maximum Wetland Impacts 0.115 acres Stream Impacts 376 If The total cost estimates for the widening of Howard Gap Road are given below. The costs include right of way and construction costs but do not account for any wetland or stream mitigation costs. 10 Right of Way $ 1,500,000 Construction Part A 4,800,000 Part B 6,300,000 Total S 12,600,000 B. Revisions to the Environmental Assessment Comments received from the agencies that benefit from clarification to the Environmental Assessment are noted below. 1. Section B.3.c. Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources, p. 39 Individual locations of estimated stream impacts were requested by the Division of Water Quality. It is estimated that a total of 376 linear feet of streambank will be impacted by the proposed project at the following individual locations: Station 46+85 14 feet Station 122+54 22 feet Station 231+64 12 feet Station 232+55 20 feet Station 290+21 40 feet Station 291+42 105 feet Station 292+04 75 feet Station 316+77 36 feet Station 318+86 28 feet Station 374+00 24 feet Total 376 feet 2. Section D.3. Protected Species, reference p. 53 The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission commented on fishery resources and rare aquatic life. NCDOT biologists Anne Burroughs, Matt Haney, and N. Medlin visited the project on February 15 and 16, 2007. All streams that were evaluated were located within the French Broad River Basin. Howard Gap Road in the project area crosses several unnamed small streams and ditches. The lack of suitable instream habitat and the fact that no mussels of any species were found during this or prior surveys indicate that the Appalachian elktoe and oyster mussel do not occur in the project footprint. This is further supported by the lack of records in the area for either of these species in the N.C. Natural Heritage Program and N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission databases. Given this information, construction of the proposed project will have no effect on the Appalachian elktoe or the oyster mussel. Further comments from the NCWRC expressed concern "the potential secondary and cumulative effects and that additional regulations or ordnances are necessary to adequately protect water quality in this watershed". This project is a safety project that proposes to widen Howard Gap Road from an existing 20-foot pavement to a 24-foot pavement with 2-foot paved shoulders. Development regulations and ordnances are the purview of local officials. Finally, as pointed out by the NCWRC, there is a typo within the third paragraph on page 26 of the EA under Indirect and Cumulative Impacts. The correct sentence should be "The most significant period of change was between 1993 and 2003 11 3. Section E, Flood Studies, reference p.60 The Office of Geospatial and Technology Management requested clarification relative to flood studies related to this project. As stated in the EA, a full flood study will be conducted at Clear Creek in conjunction with the design of the proposed new bridge. Depending on the results, a no-rise certification or the approval of a Conditional Letter of Map Revision will be obtained. The bridge over Featherstone Creek has been completed under NCDOT Bridge Replacement Project B-3662 as a separate project. No additional flood studies will be undertaken at this location. As stated in the comments, Beyers Creek does not have a defined floodplain and its floodplain is not regulated under the Flood Insurance Program. A flood study is not required although a prudent bridge design will be undertaken. I2 1D VII. ONLY PRACTICABLE ALTERNATIVE WETLAND FINDING Executive Order 11990, "Protection of Wetland," established as a national policy to avoid, to the extent possible, adverse impacts on wetlands and to avoid direct or indirect support of new construction wherever there is a practicable alternative. NCDOT was able to minimize impacts to wetlands, estimated to be a maximum of 0.115 acres, because the project involves widening an existing roadway and wetlands are located on both sides of the existing alignment. Strategic placement of the right-of-way limits and the use of a "best fit" alignment have minimized the impacts to wetlands. It was determined there is no practicable construction alternative to the proposed construction in wetlands and that the proposed action includes all practicable measures to minimize harm to wetlands which may result from such use. 13 VIII. BASIS FOR FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT Based upon a study of the impacts of the proposed project, as documented in the EA, and upon comments received from the review agencies and the general public, it is the finding of the NCDOT that this project will not have a significant adverse impact upon the human or natural environment. The project is not controversial from an environmental standpoint. No significant impacts to natural, social, ecological, cultural, or scenic resources are expected. The proposed project is consistent with local plans, will not disrupt any communities, and is supported by local officials and residents. The project has been coordinated with federal, state and local agencies. In view of the above evaluation, it has been determined that a FONSI is applicable for this project. Therefore, neither an Environmental Impact Statement nor further environmental analysis is required. The following person may be contacted for additional information regarding this project: Mr. Mark Davis Environmental Supervisor NCODT Division 14 253 Webster Road Sylva, North Carolina (828) 586-2141 a 14 01/30/2009 12:33 N,= - 918285e&4043 No.00G P02 "T RECFI V Fb United States Department of the Interior JAN 3 0 2009 FISH AND WUDLIFF SERVICE Asheville Field Office 100 Street RECEIVED Aahevillc, Nor North Grolioa 28801 December 30, 2008 Division of Highwaya JAN 0 6 7009 Dr. Gregory J. Thorpe, Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation 1548 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1549 Dear Dr. Thorpe: r+etorsin4m PMOd DeWoMW and t-i!!A?nT?t7't?' ?.'I6joro o?? Subject: Review of State Environmental Assessment for SR 1006 (Howard Gap Road), From US 64 to SR 1539 (Jackson Road), Henderson County, North Carolina (WBS Element 38629, Division 14;.NC Moving Ahead,Prcject No. MA14181 R) As requested by, the North Carolina Department of. Transportation (NCDOT), we have reviewed the Errvironmental Assessment (EA).for the subject project. Our comments are provided in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C: 4332(2)(c)) (NEPA); the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 661-667e); section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543); and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703, et seq.), The NCDOT proposes to widen Howard dap Road (SR ) 006) in Henderson County from US 64 near Hendersonville to Jackson Road (SR 1539) near Fletcher, for a project length of 7.15 miles. The project as proposed includes widening the existing road to increase the lane and shoulder widths of this two-lane facility, replacing three bridges, and improving three sectlons with excessively sharp curves to meet design speed standards. We are concerned about the potential secondary and cumulative impacts of this project We remind you that when you are assessing the potential impacts of this project, secondary (i.e., housing developments, commercial development) and cumulative impacts must be taken into account Any future development that will. occur or that will be at a higher density as a result of the availability of the subject road improvement is considered.an indirect effect under NEPA. indirect (or secondary) effects are caused by the action and are later in time or.farther removed in distance; but are still reasonably.foreseeable. Indirect effects include growth-inducing effects and other effects related to induced changes in the pattern of land use, pop* elation density or growth rate; and related effects on air and water. and other natural systems. including ecosystems. 0,i30i20Q9 12:33 NCDCTT -) 918285864043 NO. 006 9W Cumulative impacts on the environment result from the incicmeiiial impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions regardless of what agency (federal or nonfederal) or person undertakes such'other actions. Cumulative impacts can result from individually minor but collectively significant actions that take place over a period of time. We do not believe the "Indirect and Cumulative Impacts" section of the EA adequately addresses the potential impacts to aquatic resources that are likely to occur as a result of this project. We recommended that the FA include a more comprehensive analysis of secondary and cumulative impacts along with the measures that will be initiated to minimize and avoid these negative effects to fish and wildlife resources- We believe additional measures are necessary to adequately protect water quality in this watershed. Increases in development (residential, commercial, and industrial) made possible by the availability of this road improvement will result in concomitant increases in impervious surface area and thus a similar relational increase in storm-water runoff. Rest management practices can reduce, but not eliminate, pollutant loadings of common storm-water pollutants. Designs that collect runoff and allow it to infiltrate the soil have the highest documented pollutant-removal efficiency, eliminating nearly all lead, zinc, and solids and more than 50 percent of total phosphorous. Ponds and wetlands, which allow contaminants to settle out of the water column or be broken down by sunlight and biological activity, can remove more than 70 percent of bacteria, Other ways to prevent and/or minimize the secondary and cumulative impacts of development can be found in the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission's publication entitled "Guidance Memorandum to Address and Mitigate Secondary and Cumulative Impacts to Aquatic and Terrestrial Wildlife Resources and Water Quality," which we support and encourage you to use. It can be accessed via the Internet at: hup.11www.newddlife.nrg/pgo7 wildlirespeciereon/pK7c3_impacrstpdf impervious SerfacesaAw-Impact-Development (LID) Techniques - The expansion of urban/suburban areas creates impervious surfaces (such as roofs, muds, and parking lots) that collect pathogens, metals, sediment, and chemical pollutants and quickly transmit them (via storm-water runoff) to receiving waters. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, this nonpoint-source pollution is one of the major threats to water quality in the United States, posing one of the greatest threats to aquatic life, and is also linked to chronic and acute illnesses in human populations from exposure through drinking water and contact recreation. Increased storm-water runoff also directly damages aquatic and riparian habitat, causing stream-bank and stream-channel scouring. In addition, impervious surfaces reduce groundwater recharge, resulting in even lower than expected stream flows during drought periods that can ioduce potentially catastrophic effects for fish, mussels, and other aquatic life. Accordingly, we recommend that all new developments, regardless of the percentage of impervious surface area they will create, implement storm-water retention and treatment measures designed to replicate and maintain the hydrograph at the preconstruction condition in order to avoid any additional impacts to habitat quality within the watershed. We recommend the use of LID techniques, such as reduced road widths, grassed swales in place of curb and gutter, rain gardens, and wetland retention areas, for retaining and treating 01/30/2009 12:33 NGDOT ? 91n285%,3043 N0.006 P04 c storm-water runoff rather than the more traditional measures, such as large retention ponds, etc. These designs often cost less to install and significantly reduce environmental impacts,from residential development. Where detention ponds are used, storm-water outlets should drain through a vegetated area prior to reaching any natural stream or wetland area. Detention structures should be designed to allow for the slow discharge of storm water, attenuating the potential adverse effects of storm-water surges; thermal spikes; and sediment, nutrient, and chemical discharges. Also, because the purpose of storm-water-control measures is to protect streams ad wetlands, no storm-water-control measures or best management practices should be installed within any stream (perennial or intermittertt), wetland, or riparian area. We also recommend that consideration be given to the use of pervious materials (i.e„ pervious concrete, inter] ocking/open paving blocks, etc.) for the construction of roads, driveways, sidewalks, etc. Pervious surfaces minimiie changes to the hydrology of the watershed and can be used to facilitate groundwater recharge. Pervious materials are also less likely to absorb and store heat and allow the cooler soil below to cool the pavement (thus preventing heated water from entering adjacent waterways). Additionally, pervious concrctc requires less maintenance and is less susceptible to freeze/thaw cracking due to large voids within the concrete Invasive Exotic Species - We are concerned with the introduction and spread of invasive exotic species in association with the proposed project. Without active management, including the revegetation of disturbed areas with native species, the project corridor will likely be sources of (and a corridor for) the movement of invasive exotic plant species. Exotic species are a major contributor to species depletion and extinction, second only to habitat loss. Exotics are a factor contributing to the endangered or threatened status of more than 40 percent of the animals and plants on the Federal List ojEndangered and Threatened ll rldlife and Plants.' it is estimated that at least 4,000 exotic plant species and 2,300 exotic animal species are now established in the United States, costing more than $130 billion a year to control.' Additionally, the U.S. Government has many programs and laws in place to combat invasive species (see www. invasivespecies.gov) and thus cannot spend money to counter these efforts. SpeeificaUy, Section 2(a)(3) of Executive Order 13112 - Invasive Species (February 3, 1999) directs federal agencies to "not authorize, .fund, or carry out actions that it believes are likely to cause or promote the introduction or spread of invasive species in the United States or elsewhere," Despite their short-term erosion-control benefits, many exotic species used in soil stabilization seed mixes are persistent once they are established, thereby preventing the reestablishment of native vegetation. Many of these exotic plants are also aggressive invaders of nearby natural areas, where they are capable of displacing already-established native species. Specifically, stands of Japanese knotweed (Polygonwn carpidatum), an aggressive and invasive nonnative plant, occur along the road and in floodplain and riparian areas in the project area Japanese 'D. S. Wilcove, D. Rothstein, 7. Dubow, A. Mlllips, and E. Losos. 1998- Quantifying threats to impcnted in the United States. MoScicnce 48:607-615 species . ID. Pirnerml, L. Lach, R. Zuniga, and D. Monism. 2000. Enviroamental end economic coats otnoniedigenouc species in the United Scores. Bio$cimce 50:53-65. 'Lists of invasive exotic plants can be found ar http--//www,ensppc. cog/ and hap-//www, irn+4.rrvp,urg/eastern/trs/On the Intemm 01i30i2009 1233 NCDDT i 91e2eS064043 WM06 D05 knotweed can quickly form dense thickets that exclude native vegetation and greatly alter the natural riparian ecosystem. This species could potentially be spread by construction activities. We recommend that the NCDOT suppress the knotweed within their tight-of-way and that any Japanese knotweed material disturbed through construction activities be buried within the project boundaries, in till or waste areas below the depth of the topsoil. Stream Crossings - We recommend that spanning structures be used for all permanent roadway crossings of streams and associated wetlands. All stream crossings should be made perpendicular to the stream We recommend bridges that span the entire floodplain because it is important for streams to have access/connectivity to the floodplain. Bridges that span the stream and floodplain are the best option because they rainimi2e impac-s to aquatic resources, al low for the movement of aquatic organisms, and eliminate the need to place fill in streams and floodplain. Bridges should be designed and constructed so that no piers or bents are placed in the stream, and approaches and abutments should not constrict the stream channel. Fooodplain culverts must be installed if fill is placed in the floodplain for bridge construction. If bridges are not possible and culverts are the only option, we suggest using bottomless culverts. Bottomless culverts do not need to be buried, thereby preserving the natural creek substrate and not disturbing the streambed. Any type of culvert that is used should be sufficiently sized to mimic the natural stream functions and habitats located at the crossing site; allew forwatcr depth, volume (flow}, and velocity levels that will permit aquatic organism passage; and accommodate the movement of debris and bed material during bank-full events. Widening the stream channel must be avoided. Consideration should be given to minimum water depth during low-flow/dry periods when designing culvert placement. Sufficient water depth should be maintained during low flows to accommodate fish movement. Water depth inside the culvert must be adequate for fish to be completely immersed and not scraping the bottom. The culvert should be designed and installed at the same slope as the stream grade to maintain an acceptable water velocity for fish passage, and the stream substrate characteristics should be retained within the culvert. Where feasible, we recommend the use of multiple barrels (other than the base-flow barrel), placed on or near stream bank-full or floodplain bench elevation in order to accommodate floodwaters within the stream corridor. These should be reconnected to floodplain beaches as appropriate. This may be accomplished by using sills on the upstream end to restrict nr divert flow to the base-flow barrel(s). If the culvert is longer than 40 linear feet, alternating or notched baffles should be installed in a manner that in Dues the existing str°am pate-- -r is should enhance the passage of aquatic life by: (a) depositing sediment in the barrel, (b) maintaining channel depth and flow regimes, and (c) providing resting places for Fish and other aquatic organisms. The proper planning, design, and installation of stream crossings provide year-round aquatic organism passage and preserve healthy streams. We recommend the following website for additional information regarding stream crossing activities: http. //www.stream fs fed us/frrhring/polnrere, hrml. We request that you please provide a copy of the "Finding of No Significant Impact.,, If we can be of assistance or if you have any questions about these comments, please contact Mr, Troy 4 01/30/2009 12:33 t<DUT i 91e2e5964043 40.006 P06 Wilson of our staff at 828/258-3939, Ext. 226. In any future correspondence concerning this project, please reference our Log Number 4-2,09-065. S' ely, j , y.,, Brian P. Cole Field Supervisor cc: Mr. David Baker, Asheville Regulatory Field Office, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 15I Patton Avenue, Room 206, Asheville, NC 28801-5006 Ms. Marla J. Chambers, Western NCDOT Permit Coordinator, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, 12275 Swift Road, Oakboro, NC 28129 Mr. Brian Wrenn, North Carolina Division of Water Quality, Central Office, 2321 Crabtree Boulevard, Suite 250, Raleigh, NC 27604 5 16;0112009 29:43 NCDIJT - 912225864043 North Carolina Department of Administration Michael F. Easley, Governor Britt Cobb, Secretary December 8, 2008 Mr. Gregory Thorpe NCDOT Project Development & Env. Analysis 1548 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1548 NO. Olu D0? Re: SCH File #t 09-E-4220-0114; EA; NC Moving Ahead Project, SR 1006 (Howards Gap RD) from SR 1539 (,Jackson Road) S of Fletcher to US 64 Henderson; 4MA14181R in Henderson County Dear Mr. Thorpe: The above referenced environmental information bas been reviewed through the State Clearinghouse under the provisions of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. Attached to this letter are comments made by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and other agencies in the course of this review. These concerns should be adequately addressed either in a supplemental document or in a Finding of No Significant impact and submitted to the Clearinghouse for farther review and comment. Thant: you for your cooperation. Sincerely, Valerie W. McMillan, Director State Envirorunental Policy Act Attachments oc: Region B RECEIVE[) JAN 2 0 2008 TGS ENGINEERS Mailing Address: Telephone. (919)8017.2425 Loco@nn Address: 116 West Jones Sgeer 1701 Mail ser`=Ccnw F,. (M)131-957) Ralel2Ji, NC 27699.1301 Stet; Canner P. 51.01-'0 Rol ehh, Nom, Carolina c-mud "011111 .. mcmlllna Q' O.nc.V, A" Egvof Oppo.mn%p='1Iffll an?e /'1011 E',PlWer 1 ;/01/2009 09:43 NCDOT 4 918285864043 NCDENR North Caroiina'Department of Environment and Natural Resources Michael F. Easley, Govemor MEMORANDUM TO: PROM: R&: DAIT-': Valerie McMillan State Clearinghouse Melba McGee project Review coordinator 1,10. 014 003 William G. Ross Jr., secretary o9-Gil4 EA for the Proposed Widening of SR 1006 Howard Gap Road in Henderson County December 5, 2000 The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has reviewed the proposed project. There continue to he a number ofconcerns that need to be addressed prior to finalizing project plane. We aek that the Aepartment of Transportation work directly with our commenting agencies during the NEPA Merger Process. This will help avoid delays at the permit phase. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this project. Attachments 1601 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699.1601 Phone. 919-733-49841 FAX. 91 9-71 5-3060 1 Internet. www.enr.state nc.us/ENRI An Ejal Oypo,p my I Afrmwl,t Acton Fmploye, 50%Amyood 110%Puss Consumer Pape, Noe rthCarolina ullaily 16(012009 09:43 r NCDOT -) 918285864043 NO.014 ;D svgllam G. P.oss JI.. Secretary Nonn Carolina Department or cnvironmenl and Natural Resources dC1 ?? Coleen H Sullins, Director DEC 2008 y Division otwater Quality 24,2008 D4EMORANDUM --&I 11 `-1 To: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator, Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs QQ???? From: Brian Wrenn, Division of Water Quality, Transportation Permitting Unit dJ" Subject Comments on the State Environmental Assessment related to proposed the proposed widening of SR 1006 (Howard Gap Road) from US 64 to SR 1539 in Henderson County, Moving Ahead Project No. MA14181R, WBS No. 38629, State Clearinghouse Project No. 09-0114. This office has reviewed the referenced document dated September 22, 2006. The Division of Water Quality (DWQ) is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities that impact Waters of the U.S., including wetlands. It is our understanding that the project as presented will result in impacts to jurisdictional wetlands, su-eerrs, end other surface waters. The DWQ offers the following comments based on review of the aforementioned document: Project Specific Comments: In section B.3 c Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources, the discussion provides the total proposed stream impacts. However, there is no presentation of data that provides the anticipated stream impacts by impact site or crossing. This data should be provided in Section B.3.c. This comment was also made in the September 7, 2004 comments subm tied for this project (see Appendix C of the subject document). General Comments: 1. Environmental impact statement alternatives shall consider design criteria that reduce the impacts to streams and wetlands from storm water runoff. These alternatives shall include road designs that allow for treatment of the storm water runoff through best management practices as detailed in the most recent version of NC DWQ Stormwater Best Management Practices, such as grassed swales, buffer areas, preformed scour holes, retention basins, etc. ?. In accordance with the Environmental Management Convrussion's Rules (I 5A NCAC 2H.0506(h)), mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 150 linear feet to any single perennial strearn. In the event that mitigation is required, the mitigation plan shall be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values. The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as stream mitigation. 3. Future documentation, including the 401 Water Quality Certification Application, shall continue to - include an itemized listing of the proposed wetland and sh-cam impacts with corresponding mapping. P04 No?nhCero ins ?Vatran?l? Tmn5,I UOn ParroA n9 Unit 1650 Aiv Service center. R21e5r?, horn Camllna 27699-1550 2321 Crabtree eoule.ard, Sulie 250. Raleigh. Noah Carolina 27604 Pnonf. 9197}}-17651iA7:919-73}599711n1emaC h110'flh2o Znr 54Bte.oc.vSlnLwe;lantl9 6n ?OWltrpCORUniblF7urnelbc Action F.mpbyfr-50°h PacyCeoPa%Fcst Consuacr PEaO? vegetated buffers, etc.) before entering the stream. Please refer to the most current vernon of NC DWQ Stormwater Best Management Practices. 15. If concrete is used during construction, a dry work area should be maintained to prevent direct contact between curing concrete and stream water-. Water that inadvertently contacts uncured concrete shall not be discharged to surface waters due to the potential for elevated pE and possible aquatic life and fish kills. . 16. if temporary access roads or detours are constructed, the site shall be graded to its preconstmction contours and elevations. Disturbed areas shall be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and appropriate native woody species shall be planted. When using temporary structures the area shall be cleared but not grubbed. Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other mechanized equipment and leaving the skimps and root mat intact allows the area to re-vegetate naturally and minimizes soil disturbance. 17. Placement of culverts and other structures in waters, streams, and wetlands shall be placed below the elevation of the streambed by one foot for all culverts with a diameter greater [hart 48 inches, and 20 percent of the culvert diameter for culverts having a diameter less than 48 inches, to allow low flow passage of water and aquatic life. Design and placement of culverts and other structures. including tctnnorrarv erosion control measures shall not be conducted in a manner that may result in dis- equilibrium of wetlands or streambeds or banks, adjacent to or upstream and down stream of the above structures. The applicant is required to provide evidence that the equilibrium is being maintained if requested in writing by DWQ. If this condition is tmable io be met due to bedrock or other limiting features encountered during construction, please contact the NC DWQ for guidance,on how to proceed and to determine whether or not a permit modification will be required 18. If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they shall be designed to mimic natural stream cross section as closely as possible including pipes or barrels at flood plain elevation and/or sills where appropriate. Widening the stream channel should be avoided. Stream channel widening at the inlet or outlet end of structures typically decreases water velocity causing sediment deposition that requires increased maintenance and disrupts aquatic life passage. 19. If foundation test borings are necessary, it shall be noted in the document. Geotechnical work is approved under General 401 Certification Number 3494/Nationwide Permit No. 6 for Survey Activities. 20. Sediment and erosion control measures sufficient to protect water resources must be implemented and maintained in accordance with the most recent version of North Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control. Planning and Design Manual and the most recent version of NCS000250- - 21. All work in or adjacent to stream waters shall be conducted in a dry work area. Approved BMP measures from the most current version of NCDOT Construction and Maintenance Activities manual such as sandbags, rock berms, cofferdams and other diversion structures shall be used to prevent excavation in flowing water. 22. While the use of National Wetland Inventory (NWT) maps, NC Coastal Region Evaluation of Wetland Significance (NC-CREWS) maps and soil survey maps are useful tools, their inherent inaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform onsite wetland delineations prior to permit approval. 0 North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission TO: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, DENR FROM: Marla Chambers, Western NCDOT Permit Coordinator Habitat Conservation Program, NCWRC DATE: December 2, 2008 SUBJECT: Review of the State Environmental Assessment for the proposed widening of Howard Gap Road (SR 1006) from US 64 to Jackson Road (SR 1539), Henderson County. North Carolina Moving Ahead Project No. MA 141818 OLIA Project No. 09-0114, due 121312008. North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has submitted for review a State Environmental Assessment (EA) document for the subject project. Staff biologists with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have reviewed the information provided. These comments are provided in accordance with the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). NCDOT proposes to widen Howard Gap Road (SR 1006) from US 64 near Hendersonville to Jackson Road (SR 1539) near Fletcher; for a project length of 7.15 miles. The project includes increasing the lane width and shoulder width of this two-lane facility, replacing three bridges, and improving three sections with excessively sharp curves. Streams that cross the project study area are Clear Creek and four of its unnamed tributaries (IJTs), Featherstone Creek, Byers Creek and seven of its UTs, Cushion Branch and two of its UTs, and two UTs of Mud Creek. All of these have been issued a Best Usage Classification of C, however Clear Creek and Mud Creek are on the State's 303(d) fist of impaired waters. NCWRC submitted scoping comments for this project, dated September 7, 2004, which are included in an appendix of the EA document. In it we describe the. fishery resources, important game fish, and rare aquatic life that may be negatively impacted by the project. We state that our major concern is the potential secondary and cumulative effects and that additional regulations or Mailing Address: Division of lnlmd Fisheries • 1721 Mail Service Center • Raleigh, NC 27699-1721 Telephone: (919) 707-0220 • Fax: (919) 707-0028 Howud Gap Road (sR 1006) t on co. - 2 - Dec®be` 2, 2008 Enu ordinances are necessary to adequately protect water quality in this watershed. We recommended that the EA include a study of secondary and cumulative impacts and measures that are in place or will be initiated to minimize and off set adverse effects on fish and wildlife resources. None of this was addressed in the very short Indirect and Cumulative Impacts section of the EA- This section indicated that continued growth in the corridor and a change from a semi-Waal setting to a more suburban setting is likely to occur. There was no analysis of the cumulative effects on the environment from this and other area projects and activities or how secondary development facilitated by this project may impact fish and wildlife resources, water quality, or open space. No measures to avoid or minimize these negative effects were presented. We also noted that there is an apparent typo regarding dates in the third paragraph of this section. The document describes the highly developed nature of most of the project study area and how the forested land occurs in small, fragmented pockets. Approximately 31% of the study area is covered by impervious surfaces. Numerous studies have shown that when 10-15% of a watershed is converted to impervious surfaces, there is a serious decline in the health of receiving waters (Schueler 1994) and the quality of fish habitat and wetlands are negatively impacted (13ooth 1991, Taylor 1993). Negative effects on water quality have akeady occurred, as evidenced by the impaired streams in the vicinity of the project. Sediment and erosion control measures should adhere to the design standards for sensitive watersheds and stotmwater treatment from the roadway should be maximized to protect downstream sensitive resources and minimize further degradation of water quality. We strongly recommend that the local officials require strict storrnwater controls for development in the vicinity and use low impact development techniques to manage stormwater quamity and quality. Information on low impact development practices and measures can be found at www low impaadevelopment.ore htty //www epa uov/owow/npsAi llidnatl d and htt://wwwstormwatercenter_net . We encourage NCDDT and local officials to use non- impervious materials to construct sidewalks, parking lots, and other facilities. In addition, adequate analysis of secondary and cumulative impacts and commitments to minimize impacts should be developed and presented prior to submitting a permit application for the project. Measures to mitigate secondary and cumulative impacts can be found in the Guidance Memorandum to Address and Mitigate Secondary and Cumulative Impacts to Aquatic and Ter, estrial Wildlife Resources w7d Water Ouahty (NCWRC 2002). protection of the area's narirral resources and water quality will not only benefit fish and wildlife, but can have a positive effect on tourism and the quality of He of area residents. Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this project. If you have any questions regarding these comments, please contact me at (704) 485-8291. Literature Cited: Booth, D. 1991. Urbanization and the natural -drainage system-impacts, solutions, and prognoses. Northwest Environmental Joumal_ 7(l):93-118. NCWRC (North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission). 2002. Guidance Memorandum to Address and Mitigate Secondary and Cumulative Impacts to Aquatic and Terrestrial rw.uia vue 16/01/2009 09:4, NCDOT 4 9192e6064041- I JoTw,i Gap Rond (SR 1006) De bm 2, 2008 H?dason Co. -3- Wildlife Resources and Watei Qualify NCWRC, Raleigh. Available: http://www.nmildlife.org/pg07_WildlifeSpeciesCon/pa7c3_impacts.pdF. (February 2003). Schueler, Tom. 1994_ The Importance of Imperviousness. Watershed Protection Techniques. 13 (pp100-111). Taylor, B.L. 1993. The influences of wetland and watershed morphological characteristics and relationships to wetland vegetation communities. Masters thesis. Dept. of Civil Engineering. University of Washington. Seattle, WA ce: Marella Buncick, USFWS Brian Wrenn, NCDWQ Mike Parker, NCDWQ Angie Rodgers, NCNB P DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Inter-Agency Project Review Response J/ Project Number 09-0114 county Henderson Project Name NC-DOT/Division of Type of Project NC Moving Ahead Proiect- Hipbways SR 1006 owards Gs Rd from SR 15-19 (Jackson Rd) to US 64: tdMA1418111. Comments provided by: ? Regional Program Person ® Regional Supervisor for Public Water Supply Section ? Central Office program person Name TimAdams-AshevilleRO Date 10/3012008 Telephonenumdr??pb Program within Division of Environmental Health: ? Public Water Supply ? Other, Name of Program: Response (check all applicable): ? Comments attached © See comments below 1-) -74".116 ? No objection to project as proposed ? No comment ? Insufficient information to complete review DEC 2008 Ser:; _ Public Water Supply Section Environmental Review Coordinator for the Division of Environmental Health lb/L91?G19U'7 ?7: °+? rvuuu i ? oloeo.?ooervu --- -j rV DE C 2008 Project Number DEPARTMENT , ON EJAND os-o?1a NATUR fES;1f?ES 4 County DIVISION OF EN RONMENTA3EALTH Henderson Inter-Agency Project Name NC-DOT/Divieion of Type of Project NC Moving Ahead Protecr- Hiphwavs SR 1006 (Howards Gan)id) from SR 1539 (Jackson to US 64; tlMA1418M ? The applicant should be advised that plans and specifications for all water system improvements must be approved by the Division of Environmental Health prior to the award of a contract or the initiation of construction (as required by 15A NCAC 18C .0300et. seq.). For information, contact the Public Water Supply Section, (919) 733-2321. ? This project will be classified as a non-community public water supply and must comply with state and federal drinking water monitoring requirements. For more information the applicant should contact the Public Water Supply Section, (919) 733-2321. ? If this project is constructed as proposed, we will recommend closure of feet of adjacent waters to the harvest of shellfish. For information regarding the shellfish sanitation program, the applicant should contact the Shellfish Sanitation Section at (252) 726-6827. (] The soli disposal area(s) proposed for this project may produce a mosquito breeding problem. For information concerning appropriate mosquito control measures, the applicant should contact the Public Health Pest Management Section at (919) 733-6407. ? The applicant should be advised that prior to the removal or demolition of dilapidated structures, a extensive rodent control program may be necessary in order to prevent the migration of the rodents to adjacent areas. For information concerning rodent control, contact the local health department or the Public Health Pest Management. Section at (919) 733-6407. ? The applicant should be advised to contact the local health department regarding their requirements for septic tank installations (as required under 15A NCAC 18A. 1900 et sep.). For information concerning septic tank and other on-site waste disposal methods, contact the On-Site Wastewater Section at (919) 733-2895. ? The applicant should be advised to contact the local health department regarding the sanitary facilities required for this project. / If existing water lines will be relocated during the construction, plans for the water line ??/IaY relocation must be submitted to the Division of Environmental Health, Public Water Supply Section, Technical Services Branch, 1634 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1634, (919) 733-2321. ® For Regional and Central Office comments, see the reverse side of this form. Jim McRlght PWSS 10/30/08 Reviewer SeoionlBranch Date '' Vy LVyI Vl NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW OCT „ 27oA %7 (Qc STATE NUMBER: 09-E-4220-0114 Grf? DATE RECEIVED: 10/27/2008 AGENCY RESPONSE: 12/03/2008 REVIEW CLOSED: 12/08/2000 MS RENEE GLEDHILL-FARLEY CLEARINGHOUSE COORD DEPT OF CUL RESOURCES ARCHIVES-HISTORY BLDG - MSC 4617 RALEIGH NC REVIEW DISTRIBUTION CC&PS - DEM, GTMO 0 N& 2 oa DENR LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS DEPT OF AGRICULTURE RMENED DEPT OF CUL RESOURCES soffice DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION LAND OF SKY REGIONAL COUNCIL ER o4-;,.;49 A M'?ifp-J lou(v?M J(l(I1%rlLd'). ? ,..p5? /o-31-Og PROJECT INFORMATION APPLICANT= NCOOT _ TYPE: State Environmental Policy ActE tl ?i Sl R$ ERD: Environmental Assessment DESC: NC Moving Ahead Project, SR 1006 lHowards Gap RD) from SR 1539 (Jackson Road) s of Fletcher to US 64 Henderson; BMAI4IHIR in Henderson County CROSS-REF?TRENCE NUMBER: 05-E-4220-0053 The attached project has been submitted to the N. C. State Clearinghouse for intergovernmental review. Please review and submit your response by the above indicated date to 1301 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-1301. If additional review time is needed, please contact this office at (919)807-2425 AS A RESULT OF THIS REVIEW THE FOLLOWING IS SUBMITTED: NO COMMENT COMMEE'T?S?A?TJTACHE?D. SIGNED BY: DATE: Ir' /a 'C/ a OCT 2 9 20()? ---- - ------------ NORTH CAROLINA 6TA'Th: U ILL'AtC1NL4MUUJL DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION ??!f.L+.rt,7Tl Psi-? INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW STATE NUMBER: 09-E-4220-0116 F02 DATE RECEIVED: 10/21/2006 AGENCY RESPONSE: 12/03/2006 REVIEW CLOSED: 12/08/2006 CLEARINGHOUSE COORD CCSPS - DEM, GTMO MSC 0 4116 RALEIGH NO REVIEW DISTRIBUTION CC&PS - OEM, GTMO 1 VE AFFAIRS r - OENR _ LEGISLAT NOV 2008 DEPT OF AGRICULTURE, ) DEPT OF CUL RESOURCES REMIVED ? DEPT LAND OF TRANSPORTATION OF SKY REGIONAL COUNCIL i1 ?.P, C Z?? PROJECT INFORMATION ` C?'jl Q?6`'bti° APPLICANT- NCDOT TYPE: State Environmental Policy Act ERD: Environmental Assessment - DESC: NC Moving Ahead Project, SR 1006 (HOwards Gap RD) from SR 1539 (Jackson Road) s of Fletcher to US 64 Henderson; $MA14181R in Henderson County CROSS-REFERENCE NUMBER.: 05-E-4220-0053 Tne attached project has been submitted to the N. C. State Clearinghouse for ;ntergovernmental review. Please review and submit your response by the above indicated date to 1301 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-1301. if additional review time is needed, please contact this office.at (919)607-2425. AS A RESULT OF THIS REVIEW THE FOLLOWING TS SUBMITTED: NO COMMENT ® COMMENTS ATTACHED SIGNED BY: ?/,? DATE: 1113 r ?r ?T[,? (o r? North Carolina Department of Crime Control and Public Safety Division, of Emergency Management Office of Geospatial and Technology Management 4719 Mail Service Center • Raleigh, NC 27699-4719 Michael F. Easley 3 4 r? Bryan E. Beatty Govemor T1 ?? Secretary November 3, 2008 It g1' ti NOV 2008 Ms. Valerie McMillian h RECEMi9 State Clearinghouse n s N.C. Department of Administration mOA 1301 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1301 Z1ll Q 618 Subject: Intergovernmental Review State Number: 09-E-4220-0114 Widen Howard Gap Road (SR 1006) for 7.15 miles from US 64 to SR 1539 near Fletcher in Henderson County Dear Ms. Valerie McMillian: As requested by the North Carolina State Clearinghouse, the North Carolina Department of Crone Control and Public Safety Division of Emergency Management Office of Geospatial and Technology Management (GTM) reviewed the 'proposed project listed above. and has provided comments herein. It is our understanding that the NCDOT is planning to widen Howard Gap Road from a 20-foot width to a 24-foot width as part of North Carolina Moving Ahead Project MA 14181R. The project will cross several creeks (Clear Creek, Featherstone Creek, Beyers Creek and several unnamed tributaries) and then terminate on the north end in the vicinity of the Cane Creek floodplain. The GTM has the following comments: 1) !tic shown on the.Henderson County DFIRM Panels 9652, 9661 and 9670, the proposed project includes areas within the newly detailed studied special flood hazard area of the Clear Creek and within its regulatory floodway. Featherstone Creek was newly studied as a Limited Detailed stream with a delineated floodplain and associated non-encroachment area. Cane Creek as well has a floodplain near the project's terminus. Beyers Creek does not have a defined floodplain on recent maps, so its floodplain is not regulated under the Flood Insurance Program. Any proposed construction (including demolition) within the f oodway or non-encroachment areas will require, prior to construction, approval of either a no-rise study with a no-rise certification for projects that do not increase base flood elevation or for projects that result in an increase in base flood elevations, the approval of a Conditional Letter of Map Revision. Location: 1812 Tillery Place, Suite 105 • Raleigh, NC 27604 • (919) 715-5711 An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer c d j ?6i91/2009 09: 43 HCDOT 4 918205864043 Page 2 of 2 November 3, 2005 11V. V1`, 1i- 2) Construction of the in-water facilities may involve the placement of temporary coffer dams, trench boxes or similar svucrures to facilitate installation. If the structures are expected to be in place during all or a part of the hurricane season (June I through December 1), they should be considered `in-place' for the proposed condition of a no- rise evaluation. 3) Please consult the Henderson County floodplain administrators for guidance en higher standards for floodplaia development as defiled in local ordinances. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have any questions concerning the above comments, please contact me at (919) 715-5711, or by email at kasbe@ncem.or or at the address shown on the footer of this document:. Sincerely, Kew W. Ashe. RE., CFM Assistant Director c: Randy Mundt, NC NFIP State Coordinator Localion: 1812 Tillery Place, Suite 105 • Raleigh, NC 27604 • (919) 115-5711 An Equal Opportunity/Affirm alive Action Employer tr'ti Sc, IS/01/2009 8943 NCDOT ?J1Cdtl5tib4104S c i, 12/Da/2806 0A:46 82B2516353 LAND OF SKY REGIONAL NCa<TH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINO130vSS L?EPART?WNT OF ADMINISTRA.T'LON INTERC30VAI TAL PZVIZW PAGE 02/63 STATE NUMEiBR; 09-8-4220-0114 CD2 DATE R2CEIV3D: 10/2712000 AWAY PXSPOWS2: 12/03/2008 REVIEW CLOSED; 12/06/2008 CLEAAINGHOUSF COORD REGION B LAND OF SKY REGIONAL CODNCIL 25 HERSTAGE DRIVE ASHEVILLE NC R VJEW DISTRIBUTION cC&?S - DER, CTRO DENR LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS DEPT OF AGPICDLTURF. DEPT OF COL RESOURCES DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION LAND OF SKY REGIONAT, COIINCIL PROTECT INFORMPTTON APPLICANT: N--UOT TY?E. State Eavtron en"l Policy Act 4 ??8 FAD: Gnvironmental P.9SaS5menC 5'9 (Jacksaa 4oad1 s of DESC: NC Moving Ahead Project. BR 1006 IHouaR? n GHande, sofrom n County Fle-cher 70 US 64 HOndereoni 9M7:1419 - CROSS-R2,ERENCc mamrER: 05-F.--0220-0053 The attached project hea been submitted to the N. C. State Clcaringhous above 3.ntergovornmental revi.e1a, p1p.00c rovlew and eubm3r. your reaponee by the znaica.ad date to 1301 Mail ?4arvice C. ter, Raleigh NC 27699-1301. If additional reviow time is needed, plea5a coated Chia office at (919)807-2425: AS A REaVLT OF TRI3 REVIEW THE FOLLOWING IS SUBMITTED: ? NO COMMENT VOMMENTS ATTACHZD + @ @ o c,? a(} 1 lJ S IGNFD BY: l??c DATE: -1)11) 16/01/2009 09:43 r...` 72/04/2008 08:46 Wlfa *lta Barber NCDUi = yI CLGJGGU?uJ ---.. 8282516353 LEND OF 501 REGIOWL ?age M ?r;3/03 From Hope Bleeda r (hblaoOOrChendersOneOUntync.org] gunk Monday, November 24, 2008 12:20 PM To: Micinalle Barber Ca; Anthony Starr; Jim Crafton: Wilson, Jamie R 9ub*t ER 1008 Howard Gap Road from 94 6 SR 1539 Jackson Road Mlehajle- Thank you for sending the request fur comments on the Howard Gap Road Widening proj ??? rson 09-E-4220.01 14 to my attention. I have reviewed the eno102ad onvironmentat aeseserre County Is pleased to note that the projed is moving ahead and supporm widening ward ? Road from further ?t existing 20' cross section to 24 feet of paved M&May wtth 2 foot full depth paved either row or in the . that mt. Mark Davis writaet me regarding the posolNEW of adding bike lanes to the ry jde cxj or for in their e tub,re. Thank you for the opportunity V comment and pieaae forward this to 818 appaPdae eether records. Hope E. aleecker, AICP Transportation Planner Henderson County Planning Department 213 15t Avenue SW Honderoomrilte, NC 28782 58 (office) 07-4819 axt. (fax) 882g) hbipecker@hsndervancc)untync.org t 7 naf7MR ,._??S n,• , a ?';, t. ' ?? Lt `s ? Y • L IM ? ?? oil, 0, '? !C 1 f ` 1 ,emu ., ?.. - ? \ \\ ?+- • ? ?,. _ 1 i 1 ?!• r` 1 a : i i 1? .1~ ? •• C` . r a ry q ., ' ? • _ ' v.. :r w?} . f. MTV a Y 1 I I / .? Source: 1999 Infrared Orthophotos A 1000 0 1000 2000 Feet ti r •? .f Jk r J?-? Title EcoScience HOWARD GAP ROAD Corporation (SR 1006) EXISTING OVEMENTS IMPR 1101 Haynes Street. Suite 101 Raleigh, North Caroline 27604 Ph 1 8 8 3 33 H d C t CONDITION S : 9 9- 2 - 4 en erson oun y , ? Fax: 919-828-3518 North Carolina Drawn by: FIGURE ES Scale: 1 - 1250 Date: OCT 2004 Project: 04-201 N Source: 1999 Infrared Orthophotos M 1000 0 1000 2000 Feet ? f `t \'? a.- ? IfIP. EcoScience HOWARD GAP ROAD Corporation (SR 1006) EXISTING IMPR OVEMENTS 1101 Haynes Street, Sue 101 Rale Raleigh, North Caroline 27604 9 9 2 3 P H d C t ONDITIONS h: 1 -8 8-343 ? erson oun en y, Fax: 919-628-3518 North Carolina Drawn by: FIGURE ES Scale: 1" = 1250 ' Date: 2 B OCT 2004 Protect: 04-201