20120935 Ver _Information Letter_20090708

ern
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins
Governor Director
July 8, 2009
MEMORANDUM
To: Kristine O'Connor, P.E., Project Planning Engineer, NCDOT
From: David Wainwright, Division of Water Quality VK1
Dee Freeman
Secretary
Subject: Response to the Indirect and Cumulative Effects Assessment for SR 1163 (Georgetown
Road) Extension from SR 1184 (Ocean Isle Beach Road) to NC 179, Brunswick County,
TIP R-3432.
This office has reviewed the referenced document dated September, 2008. 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. Under 15A NAC 2H .0500 (.0506[4]), it is
the NCDWQ's responsibility to ensure that projects do not result in cumulative effects or cause a
violation of downstream water quality based on reasonably anticipated future impacts.
Upon reviewing the information provided in the referenced document, The NCDWQ has concluded that
further cumulative impact analyses are not required. However, please keep us apprised of any additional
information or revisions to the cumulative impact document(s). This decision is based on information
currently provided to us; this decision may change based on updated or new information.
Thank you for requesting our input at this time. The NCDOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water
Quality Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality
standards are met and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require
additional information, please contact David Wainwright at [phone].
cc: Charles Cox, NCDOT, Project Development
Brad Shaver, US Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington Field Office
Chris Militscher, Environmental Protection Agency (electronic copy only)
Ken Averitte, NCDWQ Fayetteville Regional Office
File Copy
Transportation Permitting Unit
1650 Mail service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650
Location: 2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, North Carolina 27604
Phone: [phone] FAX: [phone]
Internet: httpJlh2o.enr.state.nc.ustnavetandsl
NorthCarohna
Naturally
An Equal opportunity 1 ARrmaliive Action Employer
INDIRECT & CUMULATIVE EFFECTS
ASSESSMENT
TIP No: R-3432
WBS No. 35501. 1.1
SR 1163 (GEORGETOWN ROAD) EXTENSION FROM SR 1184 (OCEAN ISLE
BEACH ROAD) To NC 179
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
Prepared for the North Carolina Department of Transportation
Office of Human Environment
Draft
September, 2008
THE LOUIS BERGER GROUP, INC.
1001 Wade Avenue, Raleigh, North Carolina 27605
Tel [phone] Fax [phone] vmv.louisberger.com
R-3432. I17BS# 35501.1. l I
Indinrl and Cumulalive Effects Assessmenl N
Abstract
Analysis of the potential indirect and cumulative effects of this project suggested
that development activities in the project area may be shifted by project
construction. Additional analysis of the State and local development regulations is
needed to determine if policies and regulations currently in place will mitigate for;
the potential impacts of the anticipated development shift, an increasing
population, and the availability of developable land within the Future Land Use
Study Area (FLUSA).
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes a new route
extending SR 1163 (Old Georgetown Road) on new alignment from SR 1184
(Ocean Isle Beach Road) to NC 179. The purpose of the project is to alleviate
traffic congestion along NC 179, improve safety along NC 179, and establish a
more efficient travel route between the towns of Shallotte and Calabash. Upon
completion, the proposed project would be designated NC 179 at which time
existing NC 179 will be demoted to a lower status. The proposed project would
create a direct link connecting Shallotte and Calabash and divert a notable
component of traffic off the existing NC 179.
For the purposes of this report the FLUSA is located within the southwest portion
of Brunswick County. The FLUSA is bounded to the north by US Highway 17
(Ocean Highway),. to the south by NC 179 (Beach Drive SW), to the east by State
Route 1152 (Pigott Road), State Route 1151 (Bay Road SW) and State Route
1145 (Village Point Road), and to the west by NC 904 (Seaside Road SW) (see
Figure 1). The boundaries of the FLUSA were discerned by considering the
potential for land use change and/or transportation impact causing activity
associated with the proposed extension of SR 1163.
Brunswick County adheres to a Unified Development Ordinance. Currently, the
two largest zoning districts within Brunswick County are low-density Residential
Agriculture and various higher density Residential classifications. The majority of
commercial and retail development is currently located along both sides of US
Highway 17 in the FLUSA. US Highway 17 is considered a major route in
Brunswick County.
Commercial development is expected to grow in density along US Highway 17 in
the future assuming the availability of developable land. Areas east of Ocean Isle
Beach Road SW and south of US Highway 17, including the proposed project site,
are not currently serviced by a municipal sewer system. Interviews with Ocean Isle
Beach's Planning and Zoning Administrator did not indicate any future plans to
provide sewers to the project site. The lack of municipal sewers is likely to
constrain development, especially for commercial and retail development. Also,
land immediately adjacent to the proposed roadway is likely to be constrained from
R-3432. IFIBS# 35501.1.1 2
Indirect and Cumulative F_ffeas Aries meet L,

a development standpoint, due to the existence of environmentally sensitive areas
including; NWI wetland areas, and the Sandy Branch Sand Ridge and Bay
Complex, a North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) designated
Significant Natural Heritage Area. It is noteworthy that the above mentioned
environmentally sensitive areas are privately owned and not protected from future
development.
Land use change is anticipated to occur within the boundaries of the FLUSA along
US Highway 17 and NC 179 regardless of the construction of the proposed
project. This change will be facilitated by the notable increase in population that
has been projected over the next decade. According to local planning officials, the
population growth in Brunswick County is expected to continue. To accommodate
growth that has already occurred and to prepare for future growth, the County has
developed goals for managed growth, infrastructure, economic development, job
growth and quality of life issues.
The travel time saving associated with the project and the general increase in
accessibility within the FLUSA is likely to increase the rate of development.
Although the project may increase the accessibility to developable land within the
FLUSA, the lack of municipal sewer service and the existence of environmentally
sensitive areas are anticipated to constrain development of parcels immediately
adjacent to the proposed project.
The site of proposed TIP Project R-3432 is not located in any protected or critical
water supply watershed protection areas. There is one identified 303(d) stream,
Calabash Creek, located in the western most corner of the FLUSA. The
impairment listed for this stream is fecal coliform. Fecal coliform bacteria can enter
waterways through direct discharge of waste from mammals and birds, from
agricultural and storm runoff, and from untreated human sewage.
In the absence of Best Management Practices and current stormwater regulations,
the proposed project has the potential to indirectly affect surface waters and NWI
identified wetlands due to surface water inputs and hydrologic regime modification.
Water quality impacts are anticipated to be minimal due to NCDOT's requirement
to utilize Best Management Practices when constructing and maintaining the
proposed project.
Construction of the proposed project will provide improved Emergency
Management Service (EMS) and fire department access to local municipalities
including Ocean Isle Beach, Shallotte and Calabash in Brunswick County.
Based on the finding that there may be notable land use change in the FLUSA
beyond what would be anticipated with the No-Build Alternative a more detailed
indirect impact study will be required.
R-3432, WBS# 35501. 3
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Assessment N
Potential transportation impact causing activities meet the purpose and need of
the project
Cumulative Effects:
There is one other NCDOT TIP project, a bridge replacement project in the
general vicinity of the proposed project location. TIP Project B-4031 is the
replacement of Bridge No. 72 over Jinny's Creek on NC 179.
Traffic congestion and travel delays on NC 179 are likely to decrease with the
extension of Old Georgetown Road.
Anticipated regional growth in Brunswick County as well as growth in the FLUSA is
expected to increase the amount of impervious surfaces in the Lumber River
watershed and within the FLUSA. Water quality in the absence of Best
Management Practices could be increased cumulatively as development reveals a
pattern of increased impervious surfaces through the construction of buildings,
houses and parking areas.
The proposed project would encroach upon a designated Significant Natural
Heritage Area, the Sandy Branch Sand Ridge and Bay Complex, potentially
resulting in the fragmentation of Coastal Fringe Sandhill communities. Although
wildlife habitat fragmentation could be considered a direct impact in many cases, it
is also considered a cumulative impact for the purposes of this report due to the
amount of time that is anticipated to occur to fully experience the adverse effects
that fragmentation may have on existing natural habitats.
When considered with other activities having the potential to influence land use the
proposed project may contribute to land use change, water quality degradation or
wildlife habitat fragmentation beyond what would be anticipated to occur with the
No-Build Alternative. Development will occur in the FLUSA regardless of whether
or not the proposed project is constructed yet the proposed project may shift the
focus of the development. In conclusion, cumulative increases in development
can be anticipated due to existing growth trends, this project will require a more
detailed cumulative impact study.
Recommendations:
NCDOT should implement Best Management Practices during construction
and operation activities to minimize water quality effects.
NCDOT should coordinate project schedules and alternative routes with
Brunswick County Emergency Services and Brunswick County Public Schools.
R-3432, IWBS# 35501.1.1 4
Indirect and Cumulative Effects A.rse.rsmmt N
ICE Introduction
This report documents the information used to assess any future land use
changes that could occur as a result of this project. The predicted changes, if any,
require action from a non-NCDOT party to occur. The majority of the measures
taken to avoid, minimize, and decrease the impact of future land use changes in
the project area would be coordinated with these groups.
Future Land Use Study Area
The Future Land Use Study Area (FLUSA) (see Figure 1) was determined by
identifying areas where land use change and/or transportation impact causing
activity related to the proposed project were possible. The FLUSA is located within
the southwest portion of Brunswick County. The FLUSA is bounded to the north by
US Highway 17 (Ocean Highway), to the south by NC 179 (Beach Drive. SW), to
the east by State Route 1152 (Pigott Road), State Route 1151 (Bay Road SW)
and State Route 1145 (Village Point Road), and to the west by NC 904 (Seaside
Road SW) (see Figure 1).
Time Horizon
The indirect and cumulative effects assessment for this project will look at the
potential for development and possible trends in the period of time between now
and the year 2020. This corresponded to the Brunswick Tomorrow planning
document, which was adopted by Brunswick County in 2004 with a time horizon of
20 years.
Project Overview
The Georgetown Road Extension is proposed as a new route extending SR 1163
(Old Georgetown Road) on new alignment from SR 1184 (Ocean Isle Beach
Road) to NC 179. The western terminus of the project is located immediately east
to the northern most portion of Ocean Isle Beach in Brunswick County. The
proposed roadway cross-section consists of two 12-foot lanes with 8-foot wide
shoulders. The length of the project is approximately 2.4 miles. The proposed
project will be a limited access control facility.
Transportation Impact Causing Activities
Improvements to the existing transportation system as noted in the Statewide
Department of Transportation Improvement Plan are desirable to the County. One
of the strategies developed by a Brunswick Tomorrow Steering committee is to
design multi-tier development standards for major transportation corridors and
high-speed transportation routes including US Highway 17.'
The facility will have limited access control meaning that access to land parcels
adjacent to the proposed project will be provided. Many of these land parcels are
R-3432. WBS# 35501. 1.1
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Indima and Cumulative Effeas Artefiment CZ?
currently undeveloped land. The proposed project would be built on new location,
thus existing traffic patterns would be maintained until project construction was
completed.
Upon completion, the proposed project would be designated NC 179 at which time
existing NC 179 will be demoted to a lower status. The proposed project would
create a direct link connecting Shallotte and Calabash and divert a notable
component of traffic off the existing NC 179.
US Highway 17 enters the northeast portion of Brunswick County after crossing
the Cape Fear River from Wilmington to New Hanover County. US Highway 17
has four lanes to accommodate volumes of traffic heading southwest towards the
North Carolina/South Carolina state line .2 NCDOT data reports that annual
average daily traffic counts occurring along US Highway 17 are among the highest
in the County? One of the noted needs of this project is to alleviate traffic
congestion on existing NC 179 which is currently experiencing levels of service
ranging from B to F. The proposed extension of Old Georgetown Road will create
a direct link connecting Shallotte and Calabash diverting a notable component of
traffic off of NC 179.4
It is currently estimated that travel demand on Old Georgetown Road Extension
west of Ocean Isle Beach Road will increase from 4,900 vehicles per day in 2005
to 9,400 vehicles per day in 2030.5 Similar traffic on Old Georgetown Road
Extension east of Brick Landing Road is projected to increase from 6,000 vehicles
per day to 11,800 vehicles per day in 2030.6 Traffic growth on the proposed road
is anticipated to be multifaceted, occurring as a result of development in the.
vicinity of the project (U.S. Highway 17) as well as results of regional growth.7
Upon completion, the proposed road will be designated NC 179 at which time
existing NC 179 will be demoted to a lower status. Reducing traffic congestion is
anticipated to have a positive effect in regards to safety and travel volumes.s The
travel time saving associated with the project and the general increase in
accessibility within the FLUSA is likely to increase the rate of development within
the FLUSA.
Increased capacity for vehicles has been identified as a transportation impact
causing activities associated with the proposed project. Once constructed, the
proposed project will provide improved Emergency Management Services and fire
department access to local municipalities such as Ocean Isle Beach and Shallotte.
Traffic service would be maintained throughout the project's construction with no
anticipated adverse effects on emergency services coverage in the area.
Population and Economic Growth
Brunswick County's population growth has made it the fourth fastest growing
county in North Carolina.9 From 1980 to 2000 the County's population grew from
35,774 to 73,154 people, a 104.5 percent increase.10 North Carolina's population
R-3432, 117BS# 33501.1.1 6
Indinet and Cmnuukaive Effedr Assessment N

increased from 5,880,095 to 8,049,313, a 36.8 percent increase over that same
relative time span." The population growth in Brunswick County has outpaced the
growth experienced in North Carolina by an approximate ratio of 3:1 between the
years of 2000 and 2006. Table 1 compares population growth estimates in
Brunswick County and North Carolina for the years of 2000 and 2006. Population
growth for the County is expected to continue regardless to the construction of the
proposed project. The North Carolina State Data Center projects that by 2020
population for Brunswick County will be at 112,992.12
Table 1. Population Growth Rates
Population Population Population
Change Growth
Yr 2000 Yr 2006
North Carolina 8,049,313 8,856,505 807,192 10%
Brunswick County 73,143 94,945 21,802 30%
Source: u.S. Census bureau, census 2uuu
US Census Bureau data sets were further reviewed to assess population trends in
the vicinity of the proposed project. The population has increased within the CT, as
summarized in Table 2.
Table 2. Po ulation Trends
Population

Yr 1990 Population

Yr 2000 Population
Change
Growth
Block Group 3, Census
Tract 205.01, Brunswick 362 1,850 1,488 511%
County, North Carolina
Jource: U.J. Census bureau, census 2000
According to the Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, the growth in population
is the result of economic diversity including the following characteristics:
• A developing industrial base;
• A strong tourism economy;
• Strong construction and retail trade economies;
• Rapid developing municipalities; and
• Transportation system with good regional connections.13
According to Brunswick County's Comprehensive Wastewater Master Plan (Feb.
2006) population growth in the County is projected to grow by 54 percent between
2005 and 2030 (see Table 3)
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Indirect and Cumulative Efjedr Assesfinent rry
Table 3. Population Proiections 2000-2030

Count Aril 2000 Aril 2010 Aril 2020 Aril 2030
Brunswick 73,143 93,776 112,992 130,688
source: uomprenensrve wastewater master elan for drunswtck Gounty, February 2006
The proposed extension of Old Georgetown Road is to serve as a transportation
route for several municipal areas in Brunswick County that have experienced
notable population growth overall from 1980 to 2003 (see Table 4). The population
growth in Ocean Isle Beach is of particular interest because the northern-most
portion of the municipality is located adjacent to the western terminus of the
proposed project. In addition, the eastern terminus is located adjacent to the
southwestern-most portion of Shallotte.
Table 4. Brunswick Countv and Municioal Population Growth 19R0-7nna
Municipality % Change 1980-2003 Averaged Annual Rate
from 1980 to 2003
Calabash 942.2% 41%
Ocean Isle Beach 213.3% 9%
Shallotte 144.4% 6%
Sunset Beach 547.0% 24%
Total County 1 128.7% 6%
Total Unincorporated
Areas (including FLUSA 85.5% 4%
oouiae. omnswicrt wmay wre Cane use rtan, Zwo
Brunswick County has a high percentage of population over the age of 65 when
compared to the state (see Table 5) suggesting that the County is attractive to
retired individuals. The past decade has brought an influx of seasonal vacationers
and retirees attracted to the County's natural resources, namely the principle
natural resources, the coastline and various hydrologic features. 14
Tahle 5_ Ane of Pnnulatinn
North Brunswick
L
lina County, North
Carolina
Number % Number %
Total Population-
2000 8,049,313 100 73,143 100
0-64 6,891,452 86 56,715 78
65 or above 1,157,861 14 16,428 22
.?uuluo. v. . wnbub oumccu, ? Iibub cuVu
R-3432, IfBS# 35501. 1.1
ludina and Cumulative Ff eeas Arrerrmenl
8
P
-. tt' A .:E J.

Based on information provided by the Brunswick County Economic Development
Commission, the following (see Table 6) provides estimated peak seasonal
population by year between 1990 and 2000 for Brunswick County.15
Table 6. Brunswick Seasonal Pooulation
Year Population
1990 153,000
1995 178,120
2000 190,480
aource. OrunswicK uounry uore Lana use rran, may zwo
Economic Development
Brunswick Tomorrow and the Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan both indicate
that the provision of adequate transportation is a current and future goal for
Brunswick County. The proposed project is intended to provide a transportation
route between Shallotte, Ocean Isle Beach, Sunset Beach and Calabash
potentially resulting in improved accessibility to businesses in these areas for local
residents and tourists though this area is already served by existing routes-
There are currently no business activity or employment centers adjacent to the
project site. The majority of strip commercial and retail development within the
FLUSA exists along US Highway 17. Commercial development is anticipated to
become denser along both sides of US Highway 17 as the local population
continues to grow. Land parcels along the north and south sides of US Highway
17 are currently zoned for commercial use.
A Community Features Map (Figure 2) has been developed to show the location of
community features within the FLUSA and in close proximity of the proposed
project site. There are currently two privately owned golf clubs in the FLUSA,
Ocean Ridge Plantation and Brick Landing Plantation. Both clubs are new facilities
that cater to seasonal residents and tourists.
Higher, education is offered at Brunswick Community College. Brunswick
Community College was chartered as Brunswick Technical Institute in 1979.
Brunswick Community College is in the process of initiating a major construction
campaign that will add several new buildings to their campus in addition to new
campus centers in Southport, and South Brunswick Islands which include Holden
Beach, Sunset Beach, and Ocean Isle. Some of this construction is anticipated to
occur in the FLUSA.16
This project is not intended to promote economic growth. Changes in employment
are not expected as a result of the project. Chart 2 provides a summary of
employment by industry. The largest employment sector in Brunswick County was
construction at 16.6 percent of the employer workforce reported in US Census
data for 2000.17 This data gives some indication of the tremendous growth that
has occurred and is anticipated to continue in Brunswick County. The second
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Indirect and Cumulanye Effeas Arrrrrmen! Frrp
largest employment category is retail trade, which is likely to be a reflection of the
County's large tourism industry.'a Brunswick County economy is somewhat
dependent on the tourism industry which has grown over the last few years.
Chart 2. Employment of Industry
Percent Employed By Industry
Fishing and Hunting, and
Mining
o Construction
o Manufacturing
o Wholesale Trade
m Retail Trade
p Transportation,
Warehousing, and Utilities
o Information
® Finance, Insurance, Real
estate, and Rental/Leasing
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2000
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and fire protection are provided throughout
the County. There is an EMS Medical Station at 7061 Old Georgetown Road, SW
in South Brunswick. This station, located between Seaside Road SW and Ocean
Isle Beach Road, is just west of the FLUSA. The fire department located at 105
South Causeway Drive, Ocean Isle Beach and is just south of the FLUSA.
Construction of the proposed project will provide improved EMS and fire
department access to local municipalities (i.e., Ocean Isle Beach, Shallotte, and
Calabash) and areas east of Ocean Isle Beach Road. The improved access
includes extending an existing east-west route to and from Ocean Isle Beach,
Sunset Beach, Shallotte and Calabash as well as reducing traffic congestion along
NC 179. The proposed project would also result in travel time savings and reduced
energy response times to events occurring in the above mentioned local
municipalities.
A discussion with the Director of Emergency Services in Brunswick County
indicated that the proposed roadway would dramatically improve access to the
Bricks Landing area located within the FLUSA. The proposed project would
decrease response times for service areas east of Ocean Isle Beach Road. There
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Indnret and Cumulative Efeas Arrersment 2

have been occasions when a bridge located on Ocean Isle Beach Road between
Highway 17 and Lakewood Estates has been closed due to flooding. The
proposed project could serve as a detour route for emergency vehicles in cases
when the bridge on Ocean isle beach road was closed. Law enforcement is
provided to the County by the Brunswick County Sheriffs Department.
Municipal Utilities
The availability of infrastructure including water, wastewater collection and
treatment systems are often determining factors of where and how quickly an area
will grow. Brunswick County wants to accommodate existing and future
development by supplying county water to as many residents and businesses in
the County as is economically and physically feasible. 19 It's the County's goal to
provide continuous growth of the wastewater collection systems. Yet, areas in the
FLUSA east of Ocean Isle Beach Road SW and south of US Highway 17 are not
serviced by a municipal sewer system. Interviews with Ocean Isle Beach's
Planning and Zoning Administrator did not indicate any future plans to provide
sewers to the project site. The lack of municipal sewers is likely to slow the rate of
development east of Ocean Isle Beach Road and south of US Highway 17 in the
FLUSA, especially for commercial and retail development.
Notable Features
Field assessments, reviews of maps and aerial photography, and a site visit
provided the basis for assessing existing land uses within the FLUSA. Brunswick
County has a considerable amount of undeveloped land (see Table 12) yet, it is
one of the fastest growing counties in the state. 2° Growth is occurring along the
corridors of developable lands which are located along US Highway 17, and areas
east of the FLUSA including NC 87 and NC 133. The US Highway 17 corridor is
developing as a commercial corridor. A site visit confirmed information derived
from the Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan stating that land use in Brunswick
County is predominantly residential with some commercial areas. Light industrial
development occupies a very small percentage of developed land (see Table 12).
Likewise, land use in the FLUSA is predominately residential with the exception of
the US Highway 17 corridor.
Table 12. Brunswick Countv Land Use Percentages
Land Use Parcels Acres % of Total
Commercial 221 752.90 0.16
Industrial 140 1,682.12 0.35
-Multi-Family Residential* 208 156.95 0.03
Mobile Home .33 165.60 0.03
Office & Institutional 190 2,569.94 0.53
Residential/A ricultural** 3,596 98,201.57 20.27
Recreation 29 1,368.89 0.28
Single-Family
Residential*** 16,174 9,626.78 1.99
R-3432. IPB.S#35501.7.1 11
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Assessment ter5+
Land Use Parcels Acres % of Total
Vacant 51,219 369,288.62 76.23
Total 71,810 483,813.37 100%
i neie rs nu assunipuun of aensry. finis category mcWoes parcels wnere mere are none than one dwelling unit per
parcel.
"Low density residential includes areas where residential density is primarily 1.5 acres per dwelling or greater.
-Residential includes areas where residential density is primarily less than 1.5 acres per dwelling unit.
Source: Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners.
Table 13. Sub-basin (03-07-59) Land Use. Brunswick Cntinty
Land Use Parcels Acres % of Total
Commercial 111 170.32 0.13%
Industrial 47 852.76 0.66°/%
Multi-Family Residential* 109 49.96 0.04%
Mobile Home 21 71.93 0.06%
Office & Institutional 91 3,340.19 2.60%
Residential/A ricultural** 1,381 14,959.51 11.64%
Recreation 5 160.96 0.13%

R
Single-Family
Resi sidentiantial***
7,936
3.939.87
3.06%
Vacant 29,157 105,023.63 81.69%
Total 38,858 128,569.13 100%
There is no assumption of density. This category includes parcels where there are none than one dwelling unit per
parcel.
**Low density residential includes areas where residential density is primarily 1.5 acres per dwelling or greater.
-Residential includes areas where residential density is primarily less than 1.5 acres per dwelling unit.
Source: Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners.
Since the project would result in the taking of relatively small amounts of right-of-
way and relocation in the vicinity is possible, negative affects to the overall tax
base are not expected.
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Indimcl and Cimidwive Ef eerti Assessment rn

The proposed construction site is predominately forested. Construction of the
project would require general clearing and grading potentially resulting in long and
short-term visual effects. The forested land on either side of the proposed
construction site is expected to serve as a visual buffer between the project and
established communities, thus the impact of any visual effects associated with this
proposed project are not anticipated to be notably adverse.
The construction of the proposed project is not anticipated to have any indirect or
cumulative effects on farmland that is currently in production. The National Wild
and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 (16USC 1271) (Act) was adopted to preserve
certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, or recreational features in a free-
flowing condition. The Act classifies designated rivers as Wild, Scenic, or
Recreational. Wild rivers are those rivers free of impoundment, inaccessible
except by trails, with primitive, pristine shorelines and unpolluted waters. Scenic
rivers must meet these same criteria, with the exception of being accessible by
roadways. Recreational rivers are the least pristine of the three classifications, as
there may be some development along their shoreline, accessible by roadways,
and may have been impounded in some sections. Rivers classified under the Act
must first be listed on the National Rivers Inventory (NRI). The Act requires that all
federal actions, which may compromise the designation of a Wild and Scenic river
or foreclose the possibility of future designation of the NRI River, be coordinated
with the US Department of Interior.
North Carolina passed similar legislation in 1971, the Natural and Scenic Rivers
Act. Four rivers have been designated as State Scenic Rivers: the New River,
Lumber River, Horse Pasture'River, and the Linville River. None of these rivers
are within the FLUSA.
All of western and central Brunswick County is contained within the Lumber River
basin. NCDENR sub-basin 03-07-59 covers the south-central portion of the
County and includes the FLUSA.
Growth Management and Local Policies
To accommodate population growth that has already occurred at the County level,
and to prepare for the future, the County has developed goals for managed
growth, infrastructure, economic development, job growth and quality of life issues
through various steering committees. Goals for managed growth in Brunswick
County include the desire for alternative sources of revenue to help fund services
and expenditures so that growth will pay for itself.22 An additional goal in
Brunswick County is to develop a transportation system to manage future
growth.23
The preservation of wetlands and water quality has been identified as a goal in
Brunswick County.24 Brunswick County is currently covered by the Coastal Area
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Indintt and Cumulative Effects Assessment N
Management Act (LAMA) rules and policies aimed at the protection of natural
resources of coastal communities in North Carolina.
The FLUSA is located within the Lumber River basin 03-07-59, which covers the
south-central portion of the County. There is one 303(d) stream located
downstream of the proposed project within the FLUSA, Calabash Creek (see
Figure 3). The impairment listed for this stream is fecal coliform. Fecal coliform
bacteria can enter waterways through direct discharge of waste from mammals
and birds, from agricultural and storm runoff, and from untreated human sewage.
The preservation of wetlands and water quality has been identified as a goal in
Brunswick County.25 Brunswick County is currently covered by the Coastal Area
Management Act (CAMA) rules and policies aimed at the protection of natural
resources of coastal communities in North Carolina. The site of proposed TIP
Project R-3432 is not located in any protected or critical water supply watershed
protection areas. Wetland areas have been identified on both sides of the
proposed project alignment and throughout the FLUSA.
Anticipated land use change within the FLUSA that would be associated with the
proposed project is most likely to occur to the east of Ocean Isle Beach Road and
not in close proximity to Calabash Creek, a state listed 303(d) stream. Indirect
impacts to this stream as a result of the proposed project is unlikely. Potential
growth in the ICE Study area is expected on lands currently identified as NWI
wetland areas.
The Sandy Branch Sand Ridge and Bay Complex, a North Carolina Natural
Heritage Program (NCNHP) designated Significant Natural Heritage Area is
located within and to the north of the proposed project alignment.
Developable land is available within the FLUSA. In consideration of recent
population trends and predicted population growth over the next decade, the
FLUSA is expected to continue to develop outward in a sprawl like fashion
stemming from US Highway 17, and NC 179 where infrastructure is available to
support both commercial and residential growth. I
The Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan states that there are several land use
compatibility issues within Brunswick, including the following which have relevance
within the FLUSA:
Brunswick County considers the protection of environmentally sensitive
resources including NWI wetland areas and Significant Natural Heritage Areas
to be imperative in consideration of the development pressures that have
recently been experienced by the County.26 There are a notable amount of
NWI identified wetlands and a designated Significant Natural Heritage Areas
within the FLUSA. These protected natural areas would require environmental
review and permitting prior to land use or functionality alteration, and therefore
may deter development within these areas (see Figure 3).
R-3432, IIYBS# 35501. L 1 14
India and Cumulative Elfeeets Assessment Lil

Development is expected to increase between Shallotte and the South
Carolina state line.27 Strip commercial development is beginning to take place
along major corridors including US Highway 17, which represents the northern
portion of the FLUSA. This development may begin to infringe on residential
areas. 28 A portion of this development pressure stems from the Myrtle
Beach/Grand Strand Area.29 According to the Brunswick County Core Land
Use Plan, large development companies have already targeted this region
south of US Highway 17 for the development of additional large scale mixed
use subdivisions. These developers are awaiting the point when the County's
infrastructure development catches up with the current rate of growth. The
County expects peak day demands of the existing water system to exceed
water treatment plant capacity by 2010. In order to offset this expectation, the
County plans to upgrade or design and expand the surface water treatment
plant to accommodate the need for additional water treatment capacity in the
County.
Interviews with Ocean Isle Beach's Planning and Zoning Administrator and County
Planner indicated that the areas east of Ocean Isle Beach Road SW and south of
US Highway 17 are not currently serviced by a municipal sewer system. The
proposed project site is adjacent to a satellite range where Ocean Isle Beach
supplies sewer service. There are no plans to provide sewer service to the project
area at this time. The lack of sewer service in the proposed project areas is
expected to constrain both residential and commercial development in the vicinity
of the proposed project site. From a land use planning prospective the proposed
project will help receive roadway congestion in the project area and will provide
more infrastructure to accommodate the growth that Brunswick County has
experienced over the past decade.
Brunswick County adheres to a Unified Development Ordinance and has a central
permitting office and planning department that oversees the enforcement of the
zoning ordinances. The two largest zoning districts within Brunswick County are
Residential Agriculture and Residential. These two districts account for 92.1
percent of the County's land that is not included within a municipality's corporate
limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction. The FLUSA is not within a municipality's
corporate limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction, but is adjacent to the satellite range
where Ocean Isle Beach supply's sewer service. There are currently no public
sewers in the project area.
The undeveloped and developed residential land within the FLUSA (with the
exception of the US Highway 17 corridor) is currently zoned R-7500 (residential
low density) and R-6000 (residential medium density). Both of these districts are
established to provide for orderly suburban residential development. Minimum lot
sizes are 15,000 square feet. The US Highway 17 corridor is currently zoned for
commercial use.
R-3432, IYBS# 35501.1. l 15
Indirect and Cumulative E fe?tr Assessment Li
In 2004, Brunswick County in collaboration with the North Carolina Department of
Commerce, Division of Community Assistance developed a steering committee to
develop the vision of the County's future. As a result of the committee's efforts
Brunswick Tomorrow (2004) was developed. Brunswick County has developed a
CAMA Land Use Plan titled, Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan (2004). This
plan serves as a tool to guide development/growth in Brunswick subject to the
Brunswick County Land Development Ordinances; land development regulations;
and coordination with Brunswick County officials and appropriate State and/or
Federal agencies.30 It states countywide goals regarding future managed growth
and are listed as follows:
• Develop objectives that will guide and support responsible well managed
growth;
• Develop alternative sources of revenue to help fund County services and
expenditures so that growth will pay for itself; and
• Develop a transportation system and manage future growth. 31
The proposed project is consistent with the goals stated in Brunswick Tomorrow in
that it will contribute to the development of a transportation system that manages
future growth by providing a transportation route between Shallotte and Calabash
and by reducing traffic along NC 179. The project is expected to provide new
transportation and emergency access to existing residences and businesses with
the FLUSA.
The proposed project is included in the current 2009-2015 NCDOT State
Transportation Improvement Plan.
4. Summary of Findings
Indirect Effects
The analysis of indirect effects considers the FLUSA's goals and notable features
including land use/development trends, demographics, public policy, natural
resources and water quality.
Land use change is anticipated to occur within the boundaries of the FLUSA
regardless of the construction of the proposed project, due to the notable increase
in population projected over the next decade. The travel time saving associated
with the project and the general increase in accessibility within the FLUSA is likely
to increase the rate of development. Although the project may increase the
accessibility to developable land within the FLUSA, the lack of municipal sewer
service and the existence of environmentally sensitive areas are anticipated to
constrain development of parcels immediately adjacent to the proposed project.
R-3432, II7BS# 35501.1. - 16
Indima and Cumulative Effedr Asferrment - I?.p

The travel time saving afforded by the proposed project is likely to make future
development in areas within the ICE more attractive to those that travel to and
from Shallotte, Ocean isle Beach, and Calabash.
Based on the finding that there will be minimal notable land use change in the
FLUSA beyond what would be anticipated with the No-Build Alternative, a more
detailed indirect impact study is recommended. Potential transportation impact
causing activities meet the purpose and need of the project.
Cumulative Effects
This project has been evaluated using pre-screening criteria as noted in the North
Carolina Department of Transportation Guidance for Assessing the Indirect and
Cumulative Impacts of Transportation Projects in North Carolina - Volume II:
Practitioners Handbook. Based on a review of the Indirect and Cumulative Impact
(ICI) Pre-Screening criteria, it is concluded that the proposed project is expected to
add in a cumulative fashion to affects associated with on-going regional economic
growth and development.
Anticipated regional growth in Brunswick County as well as growth in the FLUSA is
expected to increase the amount of impervious surfaces in the Lumber River
watershed and within the FLUSA. Water quality in the absence of Best
Management Practices could be increased cumulatively as development reveals a
pattern of increased impervious surfaces through the construction of buildings,
houses and parking areas.
The rural character of the FLUSA has begun to give way to a more low-density
residential setting, especially in areas where new residential development is
prominent.
The proposed project would encroach upon a designated Significant Natural
Heritage Area, the Sandy Branch Sand Ridge and Bay Complex, potentially
resulting in the fragmentation of Coastal Fringe Sandhill communities. Although
wildlife habitat fragmentation could be considered a direct impact in many cases, it
is also considered a cumulative impact for the purposes of this report due to the
amount of time that is anticipated to occur to fully experience the adverse effects
that fragmentation may have on wildlife and their natural habitats.
The categories listed on the ICE Screening Tool (refer to Figure XX) have been
shown to influence land development decisions in numerous areas statewide and
nationally. The measures used to rate the impacts from a high concern for indirect
and cumulative effects potential to less concern for indirect and cumulative effects
potential are also supported by documentation. Each characteristic is assessed
individually and the results of the table are looked at comprehensively to
determine the indirect and cumulative effects potential of the proposed project.
The scope of the project and change in accessibility categories are given extra-
R-3432. Ir/BS# 35501./.1 17
Indimet and Cumulative Effects Assessment _ Lp
weight to determine if future growth in the area is related to the project
modifications. Future examination of potential indirect and cumulative effects will
be undertaken on project that have more categories noted as moderate to high
concern. In this case of this project, the screening tool analysis resulted in a
recommendation for a possible indirect scenario assessment.
Table 14. Proiect ICE Screenina Tool
Indirect and Cumulative Land Use Effects Screening Tool-TIP Number- Project Description

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R-3432, 1G13S# 35501. /.1
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Indirect and Cnmulaime EffeasAuumieni - pT
References
North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance, Brunswick Tomorrow,
February 2004, page 19.
' Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page 1 14.
' Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page 116.
' NCDOT Memorandum to Charles Cos, P.E., Traffic Forecast update for TIP# R-3432, Project #35501.1.1,
SRI 163-Old Georgetown Road Extension in Brunswick County, October 20, 2005.
'Ibid.
6Ibid.
'Ibid.
s NCDOT Memorandum to Charles Cox, P.E., Traffic Forecast update for TIP# R-3432, Project #35501.1.1,
SRI 163-Old Georgetown Road Extension in Brunswick County, October 20, 2005.
' Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page I.
10 Ibid.
Ibid.
'Z North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance, Brunswick Tomorrow,
February 2004, page 10.
'3 Ibid.
's Ibid.
'littl)://www.bTLIllswickedc.com/HomelitabiLV503,Detault.asl)x. Accessed on 2/25/08.
"http://www.brttnswick.cc nc usiAbout%20BCCBCCIntro html, Accessed on 1/11/08.
n Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page 30.
'slbid.
'0 Ibid.
20 Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page 105.
Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page 94.
R-3432, IPBS# 3550 20
Indim,t wid Cumulalipe Ff feeds Assessment - r[C
22 North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance, Brunswick Tomorrow,
February 2004, page 6.
23 ]bid.
24 North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance, Brunswick Tomorrow,
February 2004, page 82.
25 North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance, Bnmswick Tomorrow,
February 2004, page 82.
26 Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page 106.
21 Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page 107.
2e Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page 106.
19 Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page 107.
" Brunswick County, Draft Brunswick County Core Land Use Plan, Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina, May, 2006, page 155.
" Brunswick County, North Carolina Department of Commerce, Division of Community Assistance,
Brunswick Tomorrow, February, 2004, page 4.
R-3432, IPiBS# 35501. _ 21
indirect and Cxmrrlative Effects Asserrmew rt