U5996fonsi

State Environmental Assessment / Finding of No Significant Impact
Administrative Action -
State Environmental
Assessment / Finding of
No Significant Impact
Eastern Avenue (S.R. 1770) and N. Old
Carriage Road (S.R. 1603) Improvements in
Nash County, North Carolina
PREPARED FOR
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NCDOT Division 4
509 Ward Boulevard
Wilson, NC 27895
252.640.6400

STIP Project Nos. R-S720 and U-S996 Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road Improvements
PREPARED BY
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VHB Engineering NC, P.C.
Venture I
940 Main Campus Drive, Suite 500
Raleigh, NC 27606
919.829.0328
04/19/2019

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STIP Project Nos. R-5720 and U-5996 Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road Improvements
PROJECT COMMITMENTS
Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road Improvements
Nash County, North Carolina
WBS Nos. 50214.1.1 and 47133.1.1
STIP Project Nos. R-5720 and U-5996
The following special commitments have been agreed to by NCDOT:
Division 4
• A pre -application meeting with the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and NC Department of
Water Resources (NCDWR) will be scheduled prior to permit applications being submitted.
Environmental Analysis Unit
• The Biological Surveys Group will conduct surveys to confirm there will be no effects to the Dwarf
wedgemussel, Yellow lance, or Atlantic pigtoe.
• The Historic Architecture Team will continue to coordinate with the State Historic Preservation
Office to confirm there will be no effects to resources that may be potentially eligible for listing
on the National Register of Historic Places.
Geotechnical Engineering Unit
• Field verification of known hazardous waste sites and identification of unknown sites will be
performed during final design and prior to right-of-way acquisition.

STIP Project Nos. R-5720 and U-5996 Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road Improvements
Table of Contents
Description of Proposed Action......................................................................................... 1
Purpose and Need for the Proposed Projects.................................................................. 2
Purposeand Need...............................................................................................................2
TrafficOperations................................................................................................................2
CrashData.............................................................................................................................. 3
Other Transportation Projects in the Area.................................................................5
ExistingConditions.............................................................................................................. 6
Right -of -Way and Access Control.................................................................................6
Intersections...........................................................................................................................
6
Structures................................................................................................................................
7
Utilities.....................................................................................................................................7
Multimodal Accommodations........................................................................................7
TransitFacilities....................................................................................................................8
4 Alternative Development................................................................................................... 9
NoAction Alternative.........................................................................................................9
Proposed Projects — Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road
Improvements.............................................................................................................9
Other Alternatives Considered.....................................................................................10
Alternative Modes of Transportation....................................................10
Travel Demand Management(TDM).....................................................10
Transportation Systems Management (TSM)....................................10
Conventional Design...................................................................................11
Selection of Recommended Alternative...................................................................11
Proposed Improvements for the Recommended Alternative......................................12
TypicalSections..................................................................................................................12
Proposed Right of Way and Access Control...........................................................12
Intersections.........................................................................................................................13
Structures..............................................................................................................................13
TrafficOperations..............................................................................................................13
EstimatedCosts..................................................................................................................14
6 Environmental Effects.......................................................................................................15
NaturalEnvironment........................................................................................................15
BioticResources.............................................................................................15
WaterResources............................................................................................16
Jurisdictional Considerations....................................................................17

STIP Project Nos. R-5720 and U-5996 Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road Improvements
Federally Protected Species......................................................................18
Human Environment.........................................................................................................22
Cultural Resources........................................................................................22
Community Resources................................................................................24
AirQuality........................................................................................................28
TrafficNoise....................................................................................................28
Hazardous Materials and Contaminated Properties............................................29
Flood Hazard Evaluation.................................................................................................30
RequiredPermits................................................................................................................30
Summary of Environmental Consequences.............................................................30
7 Agency and Public Coordination..................................................................................... 32
AgencyCoordination.......................................................................................................32
PublicInvolvement............................................................................................................32
December 2018 Local Officials Information Meeting and Public
Meeting......................................................................................................33
8 Basis for Finding of No Significant Impact..................................................................... 35
Appendices......................................................................................................................
AppendixA — Figures.................................................................................................36
Appendix B — Preliminary Plans.................................................................................37
Appendix C — Cultural Resources Correspondence...................................................38

STIP Project Nos. R-5720 and U-5996 Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road Improvements
List of Tables
Table No. Description Page
Table 1:
Eastern Avenue Crash Rates (12/01/2012 — 11/30/2017).......................................3
Table 2:
N. Old Carriage Road Crash Rates (1210112012 — 11/30/2017)...........................4
Table3:
Crash Type Summary............................................................................................................4
Table 4:
Project Cost Estimates........................................................................................................14
Table 5:
Terrestrial Communities*...................................................................................................16
Table 6:
Streams within the Study Area........................................................................................16
Table 7:
Jurisdictional Streams in the Study Area.....................................................................17
Table 8:
Jurisdictional Wetlands in the Study Area..................................................................18
Table 9:
Federally -Protected Species Listed for Nash County.............................................19
Table 10:
Population Change, 2000 to 2010...............................................................................25
Table 11:
Hazardous Material Sites................................................................................................29
Table 12:
Summary of Environmental Impacts..........................................................................30

STIP Project Nos. R-S720 and U-S996 Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road Improvements
List of Appendices
Appendix A - Figures
Appendix 6 — Preliminary Plans
Appendix C — Cultural Resources Correspondence

1
Description of Proposed Action
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Division 4 is proposing two
transportation projects that would improve travel between Nashville and Rocky Mount (see
Appendix A, Figure 1 — Vicinity Map). The proposed projects, STIP Project Nos. R-5720 and U-
5996, are included in the NCDOT 2018-2027 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).
Both projects are located in Nash County, North Carolina (see Appendix A, Figure 2 — Study Area
Map), and funded by State Highway Trust Funds, with right-of-way (ROW), utilities, and
construction scheduled to begin in Fiscal Year (FY) 2020.
STIP Project No. R-5720 proposes to widen Eastern Avenue from Red Oak Road to N. Old Carriage
Road. The total project length for R-5720 is approximately 2.5 miles. The widened section would
consist of a four -lane divided facility with a raised median and paved shoulders, with some
sections of curb and gutter. R-5720 also includes the construction of roundabouts at Regency
Drive, Kamlar Road, and Old Spring Hope Road; and upgrades to the existing roundabout at Nash
Community College's Eastern Avenue driveway. See Appendix B — Preliminary Plans.
STIP Project No. U-5996 proposes to widen N. Old Carriage Road from Eastern Avenue to Reges
Store Road / Green Hills Road. The total project length for U-5996 is approximately 1.3 miles. The
widened section would consist of a four -lane divided facility with a raised median and curb and
gutter through the U.S. 64 interchange, and a three -lane facility with shoulders from the U.S. 64
interchange north to Reges Store Road / Green Hills Road. U-5996 also proposes to replace the
existing bridge over U.S. 64, improve the interchange with N. Old Carriage Road, and construct
roundabouts at eastbound U.S. 64, westbound U.S. 64, and Green Hills Road / Reges Store Road.
See Appendix B — Preliminary Plans.
1 Description of Proposed Action

Purpose and Need for the Proposed Projects
Purpose and Need
Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road are in Nash County, between the Town of Nashville and
the City of Rocky Mount, and south of Red Oak. Both roadways, which are classified as Minor
Arterials, are highly traversed due to their proximity to these municipalities and their location near
1-95 and U.S. 64. Neither Eastern Avenue or N. Old Carriage Road is part of the Strategic
Transportation Corridor.
The primary purpose for the proposed improvements to Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road
is to increase capacity and reduce the potential for crashes. Improvements to Eastern Avenue and
N. Old Carriage Road are needed to accommodate anticipated growth and development in the
growing towns of Rocky Mount, Nashville, and Red Oak. The projects would have an added benefit
of improving safety along the corridors.
Traffic Operations
A Traffic Capacity Analysis was approved by NCDOT in April 2018.' The 2016 estimated Annual
Average Daily Traffic (AADT) volumes along Eastern Avenue range between 7,600 to 13,000
vehicles per day (vpd). The 2016 estimated AADT volumes along N. Old Carriage Road range
between 5,700 to 13,000 vpd.
By the design year, 2040, a slight increase in delay and queuing relative to existing conditions is
expected due to increased growth. However, some locations on Eastern Avenue and N. Old
2018. VHB. Traffic Capacity Analysis for STIP U-5996/R-5720, SR 1770 (Eastern Avenue) and SR 1603 (Old Carriage Road)
Improvements.
2 Purpose and Need for the Proposed Projects

Carriage Road are expected to experience a heavy increase in delay.
The traffic operation analyses for existing conditions were conducted based on current roadway
geometrics. Intersection peak hour turning movements were converted from the AADT forecast
data using the Intersection Analysis Utility (IAU) program. Currently, all approaches operate at
acceptable levels of service (LOS [LOS D or better]).
When analyzing the LOS with the projected volumes for the Design Year (2040) under the No
Build scenario, all intersections and merge/diverge segments are projected to experience an
increase in delay during the AM and PM peak hours. Multiple intersections and merge/diverge
segments are anticipated to operate at LOS E or F during AM and PM peak hours.
Crash Data
Five-year crash data (12/01/2012 — 11/30/2017) was obtained from NCDOT for the two separate
corridors in the study area. Crash rates for Eastern Avenue do not exceed their respective critical
crash rates (see Table 1). Along N. Old Carriage Road, the total crash rate, non -fatal injury crash
rate, and the wet crash rate all exceed the critical crash rate (see Table 2). No fatalities or pedestrian
accidents occurred on either corridor. The total crashes for both corridors are presented in Table
3.
Table 1: Eastern Avenue Crash Rates (12/01/2012 — 11/30/2017)
Rate
Total
Crashes
72
Crashes per 00 MVM
164.43
Statewide Rate'
247.39
Critical
287.63
Fatal
0
0.00
1.18
5.02
Non -Fatal
Injury
23
52.53
76.16
99.00
Night
15
34.26
65.51
86.77
Wet
11
25.12
46.04
64.05
Z 2013-2015 statewide crash rate for urban 2-lane, undivided for Secondary Routes in North Carolina.
3 Based on the statewide crash rate (95% level of confidence).
3 Purpose and Need for the Proposed Projects

Table 2: N. Old Carriage Road Crash Rates (12/01/2012 — 11/30/2017)
Rate
Total
Crashes
103
Crashes per 00 MVM
433.47
Statewide Rate'
247.39
Critical
302.57
Fatal
0
0.00
1.18
6.95
Non -Fatal
Injury
30
126.25
76.16
107.72
Night
19
79.96
65.51
94.93
Wet
23
96.79
46.04
71.04
Table 3: Crash Type Summary
Crash Type
Angle
Crashes
28
%
18
Animal
4
3
Backing Up
2
1
Fixed Object
18
11
Head On
2
1
Left Turn
17
11
Movable Object
1
1
Other Non -Collision
3
2
Overturn / Rollover
1
1
Parked Motor Vehicle
Ran Off Road
1
1
2
1
Rear End
65
41
Right Turn
7
4
Sideswipe
7
4
4 2013-2015 statewide crash rate for urban 2-lane, undivided for Secondary Routes in North Carolina.
s Based on the statewide crash rate (95% level of confidence).
4 Purpose and Need for the Proposed Projects

Other Transportation Projects in the Area
There are several transportation projects programmed in the NCDOT 2018-2027 STIP and/or
under construction that are located within or near the project study area, (see Appendix A, Figure
3 — STIP Projects Located Within 3 Miles).
• EB-5852 — Construct sidewalk from Sixth Street/Aviation Avenue, Brake Street/Washington
Street to Alston Street/Cuddington Lane in Nashville. (Construction — FY 2025)
• U-5026— Convert the existing Sunset Avenue grade separation with 1-95 to an interchange,
widen Sunset Avenue between N. Old Carriage Road and Halifax Road, and extend the
existing collector -distributor along 1-95 at U.S. 64 to the south of the proposed Sunset
Avenue interchange. (ROW and Construction — FY 2020)
• 1-5934 — Conduct pavement and bridge rehabilitation on 1-95 from Sunset Avenue to N.
Halifax Road. (Construction — FY 2023)
• 1-5761— Conduct pavement rehabilitation from Oak Level Road to Sunset Avenue. (Under
Construction)
• 1-5725 — Conduct pavement rehabilitation from 1-mile north of NC 58 to Oak Level Road.
(Under Construction)
5 Purpose and Need for the Proposed Projects

�v
Existing Conditions
The following sections describe existing conditions in the study area for both projects. The study
area's environmental features are shown in Figure 4 — Environmental Features Map (see Appendix
A).
Right -of -Way and Access Control
Eastern Avenue is currently a four -lane divided facility near the intersection with Red Oak Road,
and transitions to a two-lane facility near Forest View Drive. The existing ROW on Eastern Avenue
is approximately 150 feet at the project's western terminus, and transitions to approximately 60
feet near Eastern Avenue's intersection with Forest View Road. The posted speed limit for most of
the corridor is 55 miles per hour (mph).
South of U.S. 64, N. Old Carriage Road is currently a three -lane facility (one travel lane in each
direction with a center turn lane). North of the U.S. 64 interchange, N. Old Carriage Road is a two-
lane facility. The existing ROW on N. Old Carriage Road varies from approximately 55 feet near
Nash Community College to approximately 110 feet near the project's northern terminus. The
posted speed limit for N. Old Carriage Road is 45 mph.
Both roadways provide uncontrolled access to commercial, residential, and institutional uses
within the study area.
Intersections
There are 15 intersections within the project study area, including six signalized intersections, eight
unsignalized intersections, and one roundabout intersection. Two of the unsignalized
6 Existing Conditions

intersections are located at the interchange of N. Old Carriage Road and U.S. 64.
Structures
A Preliminary Hydraulic Study was prepared in October 2018.E There is one major stream crossing
site for each project. Along Eastern Avenue, there is an existing reinforced concrete box culvert
(RCBQ at UT to Stoney Creek. This stream crossing has a drainage area of 1.0 square miles, and
the current land use for the drainage area of this structure is primarily rural agricultural with some
residential and industrial use. Along N. Old Carriage Road, there is an existing 4-span, 181-foot
long cored slab bridge at Stoney Creek. Each span is approximately 45-feet long. This stream
crossing has a drainage area of 104.0 square miles, and the current land use for the drainage area
of this structure is primarily rural agricultural with some urban area near the Town of Nashville.
Utilities
A Preliminary Utility Report' was prepared in March 2019. Utilities are available from various
providers within the vicinity of the proposed projects. Electricity is provided by Duke Energy
Progress, and there are overhead utility lines and power poles along both project corridors. AT&T,
Suddenlink, and Century Link provide telecommunications services for the study area. Rocky
Mount Public Utilities provides natural gas service to customers in Nash County.
The City of Rocky Mount owns water and sanitary sewer lines located within the project limits. The
City of Rocky Mount operates a Sanitary Sewer Lift Station located within the project limits on N.
Old Carriage Road south of Reges Store Road.
The Town of Nashville provides water and sewer utilities to all properties within town limits and
in certain sections of their extraterritorial jurisdiction. The Town of Nashville operates a water
vault/valve station located within the project limits on Eastern Avenue at Kamlar Road.
Multimodal Accommodations
Existing sidewalks within the study area are limited. There are limited pedestrian accommodations
in the commercial area near the western terminus of Eastern Avenue. There are no existing bicycle,
pedestrian, greenway, or other active transport facilities located in the majority of the study area.
e 2018. MI Engineering. Preliminary Hydraulic Study for TIP Project No's. U-5996 (SR 1603, Old Carriage Rd.) & R-5720 (SR 1770,
Eastern Ave.) Division 4, Nash County.
2019. So -Deep I SAM NC. Preliminary Utility Report for NCDOT TIP R-5720, U-5996, and U-5026 in Nash County.
7 Existing Conditions

Transit Facilities
Rocky Mount's Tar River Transit is a public transportation service providing fixed -route bus service
throughout the City of Rocky Mount, and rural general public para-transit transportation for Nash
and Edgecombe counties. Tar River Transit operates Route 8, the Nash Community College / Little
Easonburg Shuttle, Monday — Friday from 7:15 AM to 5:45 PM. Within the study area, Route 8
follows Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road. Nash Community College serves as Route 8's
only stop within the study area.
8 Existing Conditions

El
Alternative Development
No Action Alternative
Under the No Action Alternative, NCDOT would not construct roadway improvements on Eastern
Avenue or N. Old Carriage Road. The No Action Alternative would include routine maintenance
and road repairs to Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road and account for other projects listed
in NCDOT's 2018-2027 STIP. The No Action Alternative would not meet the projects' purpose and
need.
Proposed Projects — Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road
Improvements
The proposed projects take into consideration the 2040 future year traffic projections by adding
one through lane in each direction to create four -lane, median -divided facilities. The addition of
the through lanes provides additional traffic capacity along both corridors. The raised medians
help to reduce the potential for left -turn and head on collisions.
A common design theme across both projects is the construction of roundabouts. Roundabouts
are circular intersections that require entering traffic to yield the ROW to the traffic already in the
intersection. This keeps traffic in the roundabout flowing and prevents traffic backups and delay.
There are several reasons why roundabouts can be preferable over conventional intersections.
Roundabouts help to address safety and congestion concerns at intersections, and they are
designed to promote a continuous, circular flow of traffic. Roundabouts typically operate with
shorter vehicle delays than other intersections, especially during non -peak traffic times. At
traditional intersections with stop signs or traffic signals, the most serious types of crashes are T-
9 Alternative Development

bone, left -turn, and head-on collisions. With roundabouts, these types of crashes are reduced
because vehicles are traveling in the same direction at lower speeds. Drivers must slow down and
yield to traffic before entering a roundabout. The collisions that do occur are typically minor.
With roundabouts in place, all vehicles, including trucks, can make U-turns more easily, which is
important as many driveways and minor intersections would be converted from full movement to
right -in, right -out operations. Through the construction of medians and roundabouts, the
proposed projects would improve mobility and safety along the corridors by providing additional
capacity and reducing conflict points.
Other Alternatives Considered
A number of other alternatives were considered including Alternative Modes of Transportation,
the Travel Demand Management (TDM) Alternative, the Transportation Systems Management
(TSM) Alternative, and a conventional intersection design. These preliminary alternatives, which
are briefly discussed below, would not address the proposed projects' purpose and need and are
therefore not carried forward in this document for detailed evaluation.
Alternative Modes of Transportation
Mass transit (buses and trains) and bicycle and pedestrian accommodations are examples of
alternative modes of transportation that may help reduce congestion and delay. As previously
indicated, the study area is currently served by Tar River Transit. However, only providing
additional accommodations for alternative modes of transportation would not address the
purpose and need for the proposed projects.
Travel Demand Management (TDM)
TDM measures, such as carpooling and alternative work schedules are potential ways to reduce
congestion and delay. However, these measures are not controlled by NCDOT, and would not
address the purpose and need for the proposed projects because they would not provide
additional capacity for anticipated development in the study area.
Transportation Systems Management (TSM)
TSM improvements involve increasing the available capacity of a roadway within the existing ROW
without reconstruction or installation of additional lanes to the existing road. Physical TSM
improvements include striping, signalization, signing, and minor road realignments. Operational
TSM improvements include signal timing changes and speed restrictions. TSM improvements
10 Alternative Development

alone would not address the purpose and need for the proposed projects because it would not
provide additional capacity for anticipated development in the study area.
Conventional Design
Two intersection design alternatives were considered for Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage
Road — conventional (traffic signals and stop signs) and roundabouts. During the development of
conceptual designs, the intersection design alternatives were presented to stakeholders from local
governments. Due to the benefits offered by roundabouts, and the ability for the project corridors
to better align with the goals and visions of the growing local municipalities, NCDOT dismissed
the conventional design alternative from further consideration, as the roundabout design more
fully meets the projects' purpose and need.
Selection of Recommended Alternative
Due to the benefits offered by roundabouts, and the ability for the project corridors to better align
with the goals and visions of the local municipalities, the proposed projects were selected as the
recommended alternative.
11 Alternative Development

Proposed Improvements for the Recommended
Alternative
Typical Sections
On Eastern Avenue, the predominant typical section includes two 12-foot travel lanes in each
direction, 4-foot paved shoulders, and a raised median that varies in width between 17.6-feet and
23-feet. Near the project's western terminus, there is a short segment of curb and gutter.
The typical section for N. Old Carriage Road from Eastern Avenue through the U.S. 64 interchange
includes two 12-foot travel lanes in each direction, curb and gutter, a 10-foot berm along the
southbound lanes, and an 18-foot berm along the northbound lanes. The 10-foot and 18-foot
berm widths allow for the future construction of a sidewalk and multiuse path, respectively as a
separate project. The proposed projects do not include pedestrian accommodations. North of the
U.S. 64 interchange, the typical section includes one 12-foot travel lane in each direction, a 12-
foot center turn lane, and 8-foot shoulders. See Appendix A, Figure 5 — Typical Sections, for each
section of the project corridor.
Proposed Right of Way and Access Control
The ROW required for the proposed projects varies throughout both corridors, with the proposed
roadway typical sections ranging from approximately 40 to 110 feet. Additional ROW would be
needed for utilities and drainage which is likely to exceed the existing ROW; therefore, ROW
acquisition would be required for the proposed projects. The amount of ROW acquisition varies
throughout the corridor and is based on shifts in the proposed alignments due to existing
constraints, such as topography changes, and minimizing impacts to residential and business
12 Proposed Improvements for the Recommended
Alternative

properties.
With the exception of the N. Old Carriage Road segment north of the U.S. 64 interchange, the
proposed projects include construction of a center median, which would change access along the
corridors by limiting left turns. The proposed projects include multiple roundabouts and several
breaks in the medians for left turns and U-turns along both corridors.
Intersections
No new intersections are proposed; however, the projects include the construction of several
roundabouts. Along Eastern Avenue, roundabouts are proposed at Regency Drive, Kamlar Road,
and Old Spring Hope Road. Additionally, the existing roundabout at Nash Community College's
Eastern Avenue driveway would be upgraded. Along N. Old Carriage Road, roundabouts are
proposed at the Nash Community College entrance, eastbound U.S. 64, westbound U.S. 64, and
Green Hills Road / Reges Store Road. See Appendix B — Preliminary Plans.
Structures
The 2018 Preliminary Hydraulic Study recommended that the existing structure at Stoney Creek
be retained as currently exists, and the existing structure at UT to Stoney Creek be retained and
extended upstream approximately 15-feet and downstream approximately 55-feet. Instead of
extending the existing structure at UT to Stoney Creek, NCDOT Division 4 is planning a cast -in -
place replacement. Analysis at all the discharge points would be conducted during final hydraulic
design because of the expected increase in discharge from the added impervious area associated
with the proposed projects.
Traffic Operations
Based on the 2018 Traffic Capacity Analysis, providing additional through lanes would add
capacity. The proposed projects would result in improved operations over the No Build
conditions, which is projected to result in several intersections and merge/diverge segments
operating at LOS E or F. With the proposed projects, all intersections operate at an acceptable
level of service (LOS D or better) when compared to the future traffic operations without the
improvements in place. Additionally, the increased capacity would reduce expected collision types
that are often associated with congested conditions, such as rear -end collisions. Adding a median -
divided facility would decrease the potential for head-on and same street left -turn conflicts by
providing space between the opposing directions.
13 Proposed Improvements for the Recommended
Alternative

Estimated Costs
The cost estimates prepared for the proposed projects in March 2019 identify ROW costs of
$4,740,000 and $1,650,000 for N. Old Carriage Road and Eastern Avenue, respectively. Current
STIP estimates for the proposed projects are presented in Table 4: Project Cost Estimates
Table 4: Project Cost Estimates
Mrrior
R-5720
Yearl(s) ROW Mw
$1,000,000 $12,252,000
Construction Total Cost
$1,470,000 $16,986,000 $31,708,000
U-5996
$1,000,000 $3,609,000
$1,000,000 $23,940,000 $29,549,000
TOTAL
$2,000,000 $15,861,000
$2,470,000 $40,926,000 $61,257,000
2018-2027 STIP, December 2018.
14 Proposed Improvements for the Recommended
Alternative

6
Environmental Effects
Natural Environment
For NCDOT projects, the evaluation of natural resources includes biotic resources, water resources,
wetlands, and federally protected species. This section provides a summary of the 2019 Natural
Resources Technical Report' for this project. Field investigations were conducted in January and
June 2018. A site visit with the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) was conducted in
November 2018.
Biotic Resources
Terrestrial Communities
Five terrestrial communities were identified in the study area, including Mesic Mixed Hardwood
Forest, Bottomland Hardwood Forest, Dry-Mesic Oak -Hickory Forest, Pine Stand, and
Maintained/Disturbed. The acreage of the terrestrial communities is shown in Table 5.
Approximately 78 percent of the study area is comprised of maintained/disturbed land.
Terrestrial communities in the study area may be impacted by project construction through
grading and paving activities associated with the proposed widening.
a 2019. VHB. Natural Resources Technical Report for N. Old Carriage Road and Eastern Avenue in Nash County, North Carolina.
15 Environmental Effects

Table 5: Terrestrial Communities*
Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest
3.8
Bottomland Hardwood Forest
2.5
Dry-Mesic Oak Hickory Forest
25.1
Pine Stand
8.2
Maintained/Disturbed
142.0
* Includes roads and impervious surfaces.
Water Resources
Water resources in the study area are part of the Tar -Pamlico Basin —United States Geological
Survey (USGS) Hydrologic Unit 03020101.
Streams
Three streams were identified in the study area (see Table 6 below).
Table 6: Streams within the Study Area
C = Aquatic Life, Secondary Recreation, Fresh Water; NSW = Nutrient Sensitive Waters
Surface Waters
Three surface waters were identified in the study area, which are not jurisdictional. The proposed
projects would not impact these surface waters.
Water Supply Watersheds
Surface Water Classifications are designations applied to surface water bodies, such as streams,
rivers and lakes, which define the best uses to be protected within these waters (for example
swimming, fishing, drinking water supply) and carry with them an associated set of water quality
standards to protect those uses (North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality [NCDEQ],
2016). There are no Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), High Quality Waters (HQW), or water
supply watersheds (WS-1 or WS-11) within or within 1.0 mile downstream of the study area. A
16 Environmental Effects

WS-IV watershed (Tar River [Rocky Mount]) is present in the study area on Eastern Avenue near
its junction with N. Old Carriage Road.
Post -construction structural Stormwater Control Measures (SCMs) would be designed to provide
treatment of stormwater quality as well as control potential increases in peak flow rates caused
by added impervious area. Siltation of adjacent areas and streams due to project construction
would be minimized with stringent use and maintenance of the standard erosion control measures
and devices.
Jurisdictional Considerations
Surface waters and wetlands fall under the broad category of Waters of the United States, as
defined in Section 33 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 328.3. Any action that
proposes to dredge or place fill material into surface waters or wetlands falls under the jurisdiction
of the USACE under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
Streams
All streams identified within the study area were determined to be jurisdictional. Table 7 below
provides details on each stream and the anticipated impacts from the proposed projects. Two
of the three streams within the study area are anticipated to be impacted, for a combined total
of 375 linear feet. All the jurisdictional streams have been designated as warm water streams for
the purposes of stream mitigation and are subject to the river basin buffer rules.
Table 7: Jurisdictional Streams in the Study Area
a Based on preliminary designs of the proposed projects with anticipated ROW (including public utility easements).
Streamside riparian zones within the study area are protected under provisions of the Tar -
Pamlico River Basin Buffer Rules administered by North Carolina Department of Water
Resources (NCDWR). All streams identified within the study area are subject to buffer rule
protection. Potential impacts to protected stream buffers would be determined once a final
alignment and design have been determined. A summation of these buffer impacts will be
17 Environmental Effects

included in the 404 permitting package.
Wetlands
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the USACE, wetlands are
areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration
sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of
vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include
swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.
Five jurisdictional wetlands were identified within the study area and are part of the Tar -Pamlico
River Basin (see Table 8 below). All the wetlands are classified as Bottomland Hardwood Forest
under the North Carolina Wetland Assessment Method (NCWAM) and riparian (hydrologic). The
total area of wetlands within the study area is 1.90 acres. The NCDEQ wetland ratings range
from 73-82. Two wetlands, with a combined amount of approximately 0.16 acres, may be
impacted by the proposed projects.
Table 8: Jurisdictional Wetlands in the Study Area
NCWAM
•
Hydrologic
impacts
Classification
Wetland Rating
Classification
Proposed Projects'
Bottomland
WA
77
Riparian
0.17
0.16
Hardwood Forest
Bottomland
WB
82
Riparian
0.57
0.00
Hardwood Forest
Bottomland
WC
73
Riparian
0.71
0.00
Hardwood Forest
Bottomland
WD
73
Riparian
0.42
0.0014
Hardwood Forest
Bottomland
WE
73
Riparian
0.03
0.00
Hardwood Forest
Total
1.90
0.16
a Based on preliminary designs of the proposed projects with anticipated ROW (including public utility easements).
Federally Protected Species
The Endangered Species Act (ESA; 16 United States Code [U.S.C.] § 1531 et seq.) provides for the
conservation of species that are endangered or threatened and is intended to protect and recover
these species and the ecosystems on which they depend. The ESA prohibits the take of federally -
listed fish and wildlife species.
As of January 7, 2019, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) currently list six federally
18 Environmental Effects

protected species under the ESA for Nash County (see Table 9: Federally -Protected Species Listed
for Nash County ). A brief description of each species' habitat requirements follows, along with
the Biological Conclusion rendered based on the survey results of the study area.
Table 9: Federally -Protected Species Listed for Nash County
Dwarf wedge
Red-cockad
woodpeck
Tar River spiny
Michaux's su
Yellow Ian
Atlantic pig
mFederal Status Habitat Present Biological Conclusion
ussel E Yes MA-NLAA
ed E Yes No Effect
er*
mussel E Yes MA-NLAA
mac E Yes No Effect
ce T Yes MA-NLAA
toe AIRS (PT) Yes Unresolved
ARS (PT) — At Risk Species (Proposed Threatened)
E — Endangered
MA-NLAA — May Affect, Not Likely to Adversely Affect
T — Threatened
* Historic record (species was last observed in the County more than 50 years ago)
Dwarf wedgemussel
USFWS optimal survey window: year round
Biological Conclusion: May Affect — Not Likely to Adversely Affect
The USFWS has developed a programmatic biological opinion (PBO) in conjunction with the
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the USACE, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources
Commission (NCWRC), and NCDOT for the dwarf wedgemussel in eastern North Carolina. The
PBO covers the following activities in Divisions 1-8: bridge replacements with
bridges/repairs/rehabilitations; culvert replacements or extensions; and bridge to culvert
replacements. This project falls under the culvert replacement or extension activity and is
located within a 12-digit Section 7 HUC but not within 0.25 miles of identified stream reaches
or designated critical habitat. The programmatic determination for dwarf wedgemussel under
these conditions is May Affect — Not Likely to Adversely Affect. A review of North Carolina
Natural Heritage Program (NHP) records on or updated January 2019 indicates no known
occurrences within 1.0 mile of the study area.
Red -cockaded woodpecker
USFWS optimal survey window: year round; November -early March (optimal)
19 Environmental Effects
ARS (PT) — At Risk Species (Proposed Threatened)
E — Endangered
MA-NLAA — May Affect, Not Likely to Adversely Affect
T — Threatened
* Historic record (species was last observed in the County more than 50 years ago)
Dwarf wedgemussel
USFWS optimal survey window: year round
Biological Conclusion: May Affect — Not Likely to Adversely Affect
The USFWS has developed a programmatic biological opinion (PBO) in conjunction with the
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the USACE, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources
Commission (NCWRC), and NCDOT for the dwarf wedgemussel in eastern North Carolina. The
PBO covers the following activities in Divisions 1-8: bridge replacements with
bridges/repairs/rehabilitations; culvert replacements or extensions; and bridge to culvert
replacements. This project falls under the culvert replacement or extension activity and is
located within a 12-digit Section 7 HUC but not within 0.25 miles of identified stream reaches
or designated critical habitat. The programmatic determination for dwarf wedgemussel under
these conditions is May Affect — Not Likely to Adversely Affect. A review of North Carolina
Natural Heritage Program (NHP) records on or updated January 2019 indicates no known
occurrences within 1.0 mile of the study area.
Red -cockaded woodpecker
USFWS optimal survey window: year round; November -early March (optimal)
19 Environmental Effects

Biological Conclusion: No Effect
The red -cockaded woodpecker (RCW) typically occupies open, mature stands of southern
pines, particularly longleaf pine (Pinus pa(ustris), for foraging and nesting/roosting habitat.
The RCW excavates cavities for nesting and roosting in living pine trees, aged 60 years or
older, which are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age to provide foraging
habitat. Pine stands were observed throughout the study area during field surveys on January
11, 2018. All stands were less than thirty years old. There were individual pines that appeared
greater than 60 years old within the study area; however, these pines were interspersed within
mixed hardwood forests, and therefore would not meet the requirements for a half -mile
foraging survey. Additionally, detailed surveys for this species were not required due to its
historic status within the County. A review of NHP records updated in January 2019 indicates
no known occurrences within 1.0 mile of the study area. Therefore, the projects will have no
effect on this species.
Tar River spinymussel
USFWS optimal survey window: year round
Biological Conclusion: May Affect — Not Likely to Adversely Affect
The USFWS has developed a PBO in conjunction with the FHWA, the USACE, the NCWRC, and
NCDOT for the Tar River spinymussel in eastern North Carolina. The PBO covers the following
activities in Divisions 1-8: bridge replacements with bridges/repairs/rehabilitations; culvert
replacements or extensions; and bridge to culvert replacements. This project falls under the
culvert replacement or extension activity and is located within a 12-digit Section 7 HUC but
not within 0.25 mile of identified stream reaches or designated critical habitat. The
programmatic determination for Tar River spinymussel under these conditions is May Affect —
Not Likely to Adversely Affect. A review of NHP records on or updated January 2019 indicates
no known occurrences within 1.0 mile of the study area.
Michaux's sumac
USFWS optimal survey window: May -October
Biological Conclusion: No Effect
Michaux's sumac, endemic to the inner Coastal Plain and lower Piedmont, grows in sandy or
rocky, open, upland woods on acidic or circumneutral, well -drained sands or sandy loam soils
20 Environmental Effects

with low cation exchange capacities. The species is also found on sandy or submesic loamy
swales and depressions in the fall line Sandhills region as well as in openings along the rim of
Carolina bays; maintained railroad, roadside, power line, and utility rights -of -way; areas where
forest canopies have been opened up by blowdowns and/or storm damage; small wildlife food
plots; abandoned building sites; under sparse or pine/hardwood canopies; and in and along
edges of other artificially maintained clearings undergoing natural succession. In the central
Piedmont, it occurs on clayey soils derived from mafic rocks. The plant is shade intolerant
and, therefore, grows best where disturbance (e.g., mowing, clearing, grazing, periodic fire)
maintains its open habitat.
A habitat level survey was conducted on January 11, 2018, and detailed surveys were
conducted on June 6, 2018. Maintained roadsides, powerlines, and utility rights -of -way are
located throughout the study area. Most areas are of marginal habitat; however, eight
locations in the northeast portion of the study area were determined to be good habitat for
Michaux's sumac. These locations were composed of recently cleared areas that appear to be
mowed on an annual or biannual frequency, as evidenced by the size of the existing shrubs
and the exclusion of taller vegetation. No Michaux's sumac was found. A review of NHP
records, updated January 2019, indicates no known occurrences within 1.0 mile of the study
area. Therefore, the projects would have no effect on this species.
Yellow lance
USFWS optimal survey window: year round
Biological Conclusion: May Affect — Not Likely to Adversely Affect
The USFWS has developed a PBO in conjunction with the FHWA, the USACE, the NCWRC, and
NCDOT for the yellow lance in eastern North Carolina. The PBO covers the following activities
in Divisions 1-8: bridge replacements with bridges/repairs/rehabilitations; culvert
replacements or extensions; and bridge to culvert replacements. This project falls under the
culvert replacement or extension activity and is located within a 12-digit Section 7 HUC but
not within 0.25 mile of identified stream reaches or designated critical habitat. The
programmatic determination for Yellow Lance under these conditions is May Affect — Not
Likely to Adversely Affect. A review of NHP records on or updated January 2019 indicates no
known occurrences within 1.0 mile of the study area.
21 Environmental Effects

Atlantic pigtoe
USFWS optimal survey window: year round
Biological Conclusion: Unresolved
This information will be provided by the NCDOT BSG. A review of NHP records in January 2019
indicates no known occurrences within 1.0 mile of the study area.
Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
The bald eagle is protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, which is under
the regulatory purview of the USFWS. Habitat for the bald eagle primarily consists of mature
forests in proximity to large bodies of open water for foraging. Large dominant trees are
utilized for nesting sites, typically within 1.0 mile of open water.
A desktop-GIS assessment of the study area, as well as the area within a 1.13-mile radius (1.0
mile plus 660 feet) of the project limits, was performed on December 31, 2017 using color
aerial photography. Field scientists identified several water bodies that are large and
sufficiently open enough to be considered potential feeding sources for bald eagles. Since
foraging habitat was identified within the review area, a survey of the study area and the area
within 660 feet of the project limits was conducted on January 11, 2018. No nests were found.
The study area is primarily commercial and agricultural, with fragmented patches of early to
mid -successional forests, and these conditions do not provide ideal habitat for bald eagles to
nest. Only a few stands within the study area contain trees large enough to support a nest. A
review of NHP records updated in January 2019 indicates no known occurrences within 1.0
mile of the study area. Due to suboptimal nesting habitat, marginal feeding sources, no known
occurrences, and minimal impact anticipated, it has been determined that this project would
not affect this species.
Human Environment
The following sections discuss potential impacts to cultural resources, community resources, and
air quality, as well as potential impacts from traffic noise.
Cultural Resources
Historical, architectural, archeological, and cultural resources encompass a range of sites,
properties, and physical resources relating to human activities, society, and cultural institutions.
North Carolina General Statute (NCGS) 121-12 establishes a procedure for the review of state
22 Environmental Effects

undertakings that affect historic properties. NCGS 121-12 states that the head of any state agency
having direct or indirect jurisdiction over a proposed state or state -assisted undertaking, or the
head of any state department, board, commission, or independent agency having authority to
build, construct, operate, license, authorize, assist, or approve any state or state -assisted
undertaking, shall, prior to approval for the undertaking, take into account the effect of the
undertaking on any property listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) pursuant to
Public Law 89-665, 54 United States Code (U.S.C.) 300101 et seq. As the project is state -funded,
GS 121-12(a) applies.
Archaeological Resources
An archeological review and survey were completed by the NCDOT Archaeology Group in
January 2019. The Area of Potential Effect (APE) is currently agricultural land with open, plowed
fields, and likely has been in this state for well over a century. No previously recorded
archaeological sites are located inside or immediately adjacent to the APE. Field investigations,
which included a multiple-transect surface survey of the plowed APE, yielded three new historic
archaeological sites. The artifact fragments are generally unremarkable, typical domestic wares
likely associated with residences in the immediate surroundings. Accordingly, the NCDOT
Archaeology Group determined there are no National Register listed or eligible archaeological
sites present within the projects' APE (see Appendix C — Cultural Resources Correspondence).
Historic Architecture Resources
An initial historic architecture review was completed in January 2019. The projects are subject
to review under the Section 106 Programmatic Agreement for Minor Transportation Projects
(NCDOT/NCHPO/FHWA/USFS 2015). An NCDOT Architectural Historian conducted preliminary
documentary research and a site visit to identify and assess all resources of approximately fifty
years of age or more within the APE. One resource, the Bass House and outbuildings at 3033
Eastern Avenue, warranted intensive National Register eligibility evaluation. For purposes of
compliance with Section 106 of the NHPA, the Bass House is recommended not eligible for
inclusion on the NRHP. NCDOT Architectural Historians determined all other properties and
districts are not worthy of further study and evaluation due to lack of historical significance
and/or integrity. Therefore, significant impacts to historic architecture are not anticipated with
the implementation of the proposed projects (see Appendix C — Cultural Resources
Correspondence).
23 Environmental Effects

Community Resources
A Short Form Community Impact Assessment9 (CIA) was completed for this project corridor in
January 2019. The existing land use along the project corridors is a mixture of primarily
agricultural, light industrial, and single-family residential.
Land Use Plans and Transportation Plans
The 2013 Rocky Mount Urban Area Metropolitan Transportation Plan 2040 (2013 MTP) provides
a fiscally constrained, long range plan of projects and processes that the Metropolitan Planning
Organization (MPO) plans to fulfill. The vision of the 2013 MTP is to provide the necessary
infrastructure for the transportation needs of the region. The widening of Eastern Avenue was
identified in the 2013 MTP. In this plan, Eastern Avenue is identified as regionally significant.
Eastern Avenue, from Old Carriage Road to just west of Forest View Drive, is not projected to
exceed LOS D capacity by 2040. However, this facility is of interest to the Rocky Mount Urban
Area MPO due to present and future development in the area. This development is expected to
attract residents and businesses.
The 2016 Rocky Mount Urban Area Comprehensive Transportation Plan (2016 CTP) is a long-
range multi -modal plan that covers the needs of Rocky Mount, Nashville, Sharpsburg, and some
parts of Nash County and Edgecombe County through 2040. Modes of transportation evaluated
as part of this plan include highway, public transportation, rail, bicycle, and pedestrian.
In the 2016 CTP, the proposal is to upgrade Eastern Avenue to a four -lane divided boulevard
from N. Old Carriage Road to just west of Forest View Drive. The proposal coincides with the
Sunset Avenue CTP proposal which also upgrades Sunset Avenue, from U.S. 64 Business (Buck
Leonard Boulevard/Sunset Avenue) to N. Old Carriage Road, to a four -lane divided boulevard.
Also recommended on this facility is a multi -use path from N. Old Carriage Road to the Town
of Nashville municipal limits and bicycle accommodations from the Town of Nashville municipal
limits to Red Oak Road.
The widening of N. Old Carriage Road was also identified in the 2016 CTP. N. Old Carriage Road
from Green Hills Road/Reges Store Road to Eastern Avenue/Sunset Avenue is not expected to
exceed LOS D capacity by 2040; however, the facility is of interest to the Rocky Mount Urban
Area MPO. It serves as a direct route to Future 1-495/U.S. 64 from NC 43. N. Old Carriage Road
9 2019. VHB. Short Form Community Impact Assessment for U-5996 and R-5720 in Nash County, North Carolina.
24 Environmental Effects

also provides access to Nash County Community College. Additionally, a crash assessment
performed during the development of the CTP identified the section from the Future 1-495/U.S.
64 Interchange to Eastern Avenue/Sunset Avenue as a high frequency crash location. 19 crashes
occurred between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2011.
The 2016 CTP proposal is to upgrade N. Old Carriage Road to a three -lane facility with a
continuous two-way left -turn lane (TWLTL). In addition, with the upgrade of Future 1-495/U.S.
64 to interstate standards, the CTP proposal also recommends a widening upgrade to the
current N. Old Carriage Road interchange. There are also recommendations on N. Old Carriage
Road for bicycle and sidewalk accommodations starting at Nash County Community College
and continuing south. The upgrade is expected to increase accessibility to the college, improve
movement at the Future 1-495/U.S. 64 interchange and increase overall capacity.
With the exception of the bicycle and pedestrian accommodations, the proposed projects are
consistent with the NCDOT STIP as well as other local planning efforts. While not included in
preliminary designs, both projects provide the berm widths necessary for bicycle and pedestrian
accommodations to be added in the future.
Population Growth
The Demographic Study Area (DSA) represents all Census Block Groups (BGs) that encompass
properties that could be directly affected by the proposed projects (see Appendix A, Figure 6 —
Demographic Study Area Map). The demographic data of the DSA's population are analyzed for
the proposed projects.
Between 2000 and 2010, Nash County's total population increased by 9.6 percent, at an
annualized growth rate of 0.9 percent. As shown in Table 10, population in the projects' DSA
has grown rapidly over the same timeframe.
Table 10: Population Change, 2000 to 2010
Total Population (2000)
DSA Aggregate
10,578
Nash County
87,420
North Carolina
8,049,313
Total Population (2010)
14,907
95,840
9,535,483
Change (%)
40.9
9.6
18.5
Annualized Growth Rate (%)
3.5
0.9
1.7
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Census 2010 and Census 2000, Summary File 1 100% Data, Table P1 and P001 "Total Population."
25 Environmental Effects

Title VI and Environmental Justice
NCDOT is committed to ensuring that no person shall — on the grounds of race, color, national
origin, limited English proficiency (LEP), income status, sex, age, or disability — be excluded from
participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under
any NCDOT program or activity, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other
related nondiscrimination laws and authorities.
In accordance with Title VI and Executive Order 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental
Justice in Minority and Low- Income Populations, NCDOT is required to achieve environmental
justice as part of its mission by identifying and addressing, as appropriate, disproportionately
high and adverse human or environmental effects — including the interrelated social and
economic effects — of its programs, policies, and activities on minority populations and low-
income populations.
Additionally, in accordance with Title VI and Executive Order 13166, Improving Access to Services
for Persons with Limited English Proficiency, NCDOT is required to provide meaningful access to
the department's programs, information, and services for LEP populations.
Other applicable nondiscrimination laws include:
• Section 162(a) of the Federal -Aid Highway Act of 1973 (sex or gender)
• Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (age)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (disability)
• Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (disability)
• Fair Housing Act (religion)
Based on the January 2019 CIA, census data indicates a notable presence of low-income
populations meeting the criteria for Environmental Justice within the DSA, and low-income
communities were observed during the field visit
No notable adverse community impacts are anticipated with the project; thus, impacts to
minority and low-income populations do not appear to be disproportionately high and adverse.
Benefits and burdens resulting from the project area anticipated to be equitably distributed
throughout the community. No disparate impacts are anticipated under Title VI and related
statutes.
26 Environmental Effects

Census data does not indicate LEP populations meeting the U.S. Department of Justice LEP Safe
Harbor threshold but does indicate a Spanish language -speaking population exceeding 50
persons within the DSA that may require language assistance. Census Tract 111.01, BG 1, located
to the northwest of the projects, has a Spanish language -speaking population of 79 individuals.
Public outreach materials were provided in both English and Spanish. A Spanish translator was
present at the December 2018 public meeting for the proposed projects.
Prime or Unique Agricultural Lands
North Carolina Executive Order Number 96, Preservation of Prime Agricultural and Forest Lands,
requires all state agencies to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects
on prime farmland soils, as designated by the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service
(NRCS). These soils are determined based on criteria such as crop yield and level of input of
economic resources. Land that is planned or zoned for urban development is not subject to the
same level of preservation as other rural or agricultural areas. As defined in North Carolina
General Statute (NCGS) 143B-3, all State agencies under the jurisdiction of the Governor shall
ensure that actions taken by those agencies would minimize the loss of prime agricultural and
forest lands.
The proposed projects are located in a rural area of Nash County. Several agricultural parcels
are located along Eastern Avenue, and they are actively being used or managed for agricultural
purposes. One Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) is located within the Eastern Avenue project
footprint, on the southern side of the project corridor, and would be impacted by the proposed
project. Pursuant to N.C.G.S. §106-740, no state or local public agency or governmental unit may
formally initiate any action to condemn any interest in qualifying farmland within a District until
such agency or unit has requested the Advisory Board to hold a public hearing on the proposed
condemnation.
Using the projects' preliminary design and assuming slope stakes plus a 25-foot buffer, 80 acres
of Farmland Protection Policy Act soils have the potential to be impacted by the proposed
projects. Approximately 24 acres of prime farmland, 54 acres of farmland of statewide
importance, and 2 acres of prime farmland if drained are expected to be impacted.
Public Lands and Scenic, Recreational, and State Natural Areas
No public lands or scenic, recreational, or state natural areas are located within the study area
27 Environmental Effects

for the proposed projects.
Property Relocations
Due to the ROW necessary for the proposed typical sections, property impacts are expected.
Most of these impacts are expected to be on agricultural properties along the corridor.
Approximately two properties (one residence and one business) and are expected to be
relocated based on the preliminary designs. NCDOT will conduct additional coordination during
the ROW phase of the project.
Air Quality
The Air Quality Report, approved in January 2019, found no adverse effects on air quality as a
result of the proposed projects. The proposed projects are in Nash County which is in maintenance
for the 1997 8-hour ozone standard and in attainment for all other NAAQS; therefore, 40 CFR
Parts 51 and 93 are not applicable. The Air Quality Report completes the assessment requirements
for air quality of the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments and the SEPA process. No additional reports
are necessary.
Traffic Noise
NCDOT defines noise as unwanted or excessive sounds. Sound is created when an object moves,
causing vibrations or waves in air molecules. Sound levels are measured in units called decibels
(dB). Adjustment for high and low-pitched sounds an average person can hear is called "A -
weighted levels" or dBA. Highway traffic noise is assessed using dBA measurements. Noise is
further described by its average level over time. In noise abatement studies an "hourly equivalent
sound level," or Leq(h), is the constant, average sound level that contains the same amount of
sound energy over the time period as does the varying levels of actual traffic noise. (North Carolina
Department of Transportation, 2004.)
A Traffic Noise Report10 was prepared in February 2019. There were 16 predicted traffic noise
impacts under the design year (2040) build conditions. Of the 16 impacts, 14 were isolated and
are expected to be caused by predicted noise levels that would approach or exceed NCDOT's and
FHWA's noise abatement criteria. Two (2) adjacent impacts located outside the construction limits
of the proposed projects had noise levels exceeding their noise abatement criteria impact
approach thresholds in the Existing and Build condition; it was determined that these impacts
10 VHB. 2019. Traffic Noise Report for Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road Widening in Nash County, NC.
28 Environmental Effects

were not a result of the proposed projects.
All impacts in the project area are isolated; therefore, noise walls would not be able to meet
feasibility criteria which is why noise abatement measures were not considered and installation of
traffic noise abatement measures are considered unlikely for these projects.
All reasonable efforts should be made to minimize exposure to constructions noise for noise -
sensitive land uses. Such efforts may include, but are not limited to, work -hour limits, equipment
exhaust muffler requirements, haul -road locations, elimination of "tail gate banging", ambient -
sensitive backup alarms, construction noise complaint mechanisms, and consistent and
transparent community communication.
Hazardous Materials and Contaminated Properties
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment" was completed in October 2018. There are six
underground storage tank (UST) facilities within the project corridors. Table 11 identifies the
potential hazardous facilities located within the vicinity of the proposed projects.
Table 11: Hazardous Material Sites
1
Gas Station
Gas Station
Gas Station
Former Gas Station
Auto Related
Sheetz Store #504
157 N. Old Carriage Road
130 N. Old Carriage Road
Low
Low
2
EP Mart 14130
Murphy Express 8502
Grahams Grocery
Dennis Auto and J&S
H Hendricks Inc.
3
1185 Eastern Avenue
Low
4
3957 Eastern Avenue
Medium
5
1105 & 1109 Eastern
Avenue
2381 Eastern Avenue
Low
6
Former Auto Related
Low
The proposed projects would require the acquisition of some ROW along the project corridors.
Field verification of the hazardous waste sites and identification of unknown sites should be
performed based on the refined preliminary designs prior to ROW acquisition.
Dominion Pipeline (Atlantic Coast Pipeline) has been issued an encroachment agreement for a
36-foot welded steel gas pipeline to be bored under Eastern Avenue. It is approximately 0.18
miles east of SR 1814, Kamlar Road. NCDOT and Dominion Pipeline are conducting ongoing
coordination during planning and design efforts.
" Falcon Engineering. 2018. Phase I ESA for Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road.
29 Environmental Effects

Flood Hazard Evaluation
The existing 4-span 181-foot long cored slab bridge over Stoney Creek is located in a Detailed
Studied Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood zone and regulatory floodway.
According to the preliminary hydraulic study, to avoid causing an increase in the 100-yeear flood
elevation, the existing roadway grade should be maintained in each roadway approach section
within the FEMA floodplain. The roadway grade along N. Old Carriage Road at the end of the
proposed project should also be maintained.
The residence located at the southeast corner of the N. Old Carriage Road/Green Hills Road
intersection is a FEMA buyout property. The proposed projects are not anticipated to impact this
property.
Required Permits
The proposed projects would result in construction activities requiring environmental regulatory
permits from state and federal agencies. The Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) provides
the basic structure for regulating quality standards for surface waters and regulating discharges
of pollutants into waters of the United States (United States Environmental Protection Agency,
2016c). In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344), a
permit may be required from the USACE for the discharge of dredged or fill material into "Waters
of the United States", including wetlands. The USACE holds the final discretion as to what permit
would be required to authorize project construction. If a Section 404 permit is required, then a
Section 401 Water Quality Certification (WQC) from NCDWR would be needed.
Summary of Environmental Consequences
Table below provides a summary of the environmental consequences anticipated with
implementation of the proposed action. The anticipated impacts are based on the preliminary
designs with anticipated ROW (including public utility easements) (see Appendix B — Preliminary
Plans).
Table 12: Summary of Environmental Impacts
Streamsb 1 375 linear feet
Wetlandsb 1 0.16 acres
Protected Species I No Effect (pending unresolved survey;
30 Environmental Effects

Historic Architecture I No Effect
Archaeological Sites I No Effect
Environmental Justice Impacts to minority and low-income populations do not
appear to be disproportionately high and adverse
Relocations
Air Quality
Traffic Noise
No Adverse Effect
14
Hazardous Materials Sites 1 6
a Based on preliminary designs of the proposed action with anticipated ROW (including public utility easements).
'Jurisdictional resources.
31 Environmental Effects

7
Agency and Public Coordination
Agency Coordination
In lieu of holding an in -person project initiation meeting, NCDOT distributed a project information
packet to local, state, and federal agencies on November 27, 2018. As identified in the project
information packet, NCDOT screened the proposed projects and determined that the proposed
projects would not proceed through the NEPA/Section 404 Merger Process.
In response to the project information packet, comments were received from the following
entities:
• United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)
• North Carolina Department of Water Resources (NCDWR)
The project team coordinated with, and sought input from, project stakeholders and agencies
throughout the planning and preliminary design phases of the project. Extensive coordination
with the Town of Nashville, Nash County, City of Rocky Mount, and Nash Community College was
undertaken regarding the proposed projects. Coordination with project stakeholders and agency
representatives would continue, as necessary, throughout the remainder of the project. The
NCDOT and project team continues to coordinate with these stakeholders regarding design
modifications to minimize potential impacts associated with the proposed projects and provide
schedule information.
Public Involvement
In early 2018, NCDOT began the public outreach effort through distribution of a landowner
notification postcard to property owners along the project corridors. Several comments were
32 Agency and Public Coordination

received and responded to over the course of the project development process, most of them
were questions about the potential for the proposed projects to impact residential and business
properties along the corridors.
A project mailing list that included all property owners in the project study area, as well as
community members that requested updates on the proposed projects, was continuously
updated throughout the project development process.
December 2018 Local Officials Information Meeting and Public Meeting
In November 2018, NCDOT mailed postcards informing the public of a public meeting scheduled
for December 13, 2018. Invitations to the Local Officials Information Meeting (LOIM), also
scheduled for December 13, 2018, were sent to local government representatives and
stakeholders. Public meeting information was posted on the NCDOT Public Meetings webpage. A
Public Meeting Notice was also shared with local newspapers, radio stations, and TV stations, and
flyers announcing the meeting were posted at numerous locations in the vicinity of the proposed
projects. Public comments were requested through January 14, 2019.
The public meeting was held on Thursday, December 13, 2018 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the
Nash Community College Brown Auditorium located at 522 N. Old Carriage Road in Rocky Mount.
116 citizens signed in at the public meeting. A reporter from the Rocky Mount Telegram attended
the meeting and asked questions of the project team and community members. The LOW was
held prior to the public meeting, in which seven local officials attended.
The purpose of the meetings was to introduce the proposed projects to the local community and
gain input on existing conditions, concerns, and opinions. A narrated presentation, maps,
informational boards, visualizations, simulations, and handouts were shared with the public. The
project team and numerous NCDOT staff were available to discuss the projects with the
community.
In addition to information about the proposed projects on Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage
Road, updated designs were also provided for an adjacent project, U-5026. As identified in the
2018-2027 NCDOT STIP, NCDOT is combining R-5720, U-5996, and U-5026 for construction
letting (anticipated in FY 2020). NCDOT completed the supporting environmental documentation
(Type III Categorical Exclusion [CE]) for U-5026 in October 2017. A consultation is being prepared
to determine if the CE remains valid or if additional analysis is required.
33 Agency and Public Coordination

Comments Received
The public was encouraged to submit written comments through January 14, 2019. A total of 17
comment submissions were received. Many of the comments received expressed support for
the proposed projects. Other comments included those related to:
• Bicycle and pedestrian accommodations
• Roundabout design
• Property impacts
• Property access
• Noise impacts
• Median breaks
NCDOT continues to incorporate this input into the projects' preliminary designs.
34 Agency and Public Coordination

Basis for Finding of No Significant Impact
NCDOT has determined that the proposed projects would not result in significant adverse impacts
on the natural or human environment. This conclusion is based on the environmental assessment
conducted for the proposed projects; input received from federal, state, and local agencies; and
the input from the public. Therefore, a Finding of No Significant Impact is appropriate for this
project, and no further environmental analysis required.
35 Basis for Finding of No Significant Impact

Appendix A — Figures
Appendix A

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m
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spring Mill a/
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0 o.zs o.�s
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FI ure 1: Pro ect Vicinit
g i Y
'Prepared
NCDOT STIP Nos. R-5720 and U-5996
Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road
Miles
Miles
by: VHB Date: March 2019
Nash Count

Eastern Avenue (R-5720)
North Old Carriage Road (U-5996) - FTC '+'*•
® Direct Community Impact Area
Waterbody Via*
Municipal Boundary�S �� I� _ Reaes Storepd
Green Hills Rd
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� O �
e Figure 2: Stud Area NCDOT STIP Nos. Rand U
0 0.25 0.5 0.75 1
y Eastern Avenue and N.. Old Old Carriagee Road
Miles Prepared by: VHB Date: March 2019 Nash Count

- Eastern Avenue (R-5720) `ock Branch
-North Old Carriage Road (U-5996) spa s
Division Bike/Pedestrian a o s c~o
° ° cO¢
Division Highway T 43
Statewide Highway
Harrisontown Rd 13�
Waterbody
Rose Blvd Red Oak
Municipal Boundary
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a
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z
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Nashville
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Nashville
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Golfers Ln
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58
1-5761
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S �ansfield�50 � Q �d 'Car Rite<
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gherrod Rd
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eg
Figure 3: STIP Projects Located Within
3 Miles
NCDOT STIP Nos. R-5720 and U-5996
Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road
Miles
Prepared by: VHB Date: March 2019
Nash Count

Project Corridors 0 Public Water Supply I� Nash Community College Wetland (delineated)
® DCIA Boundary Water Tower Park i Waterbody (delineated)
Ild Place of Worship �Golf Course Protected Water Supply Watershed oq Landfill Site -Historical
n School Historic District Proposed Atlantic Coast Pipeline
© Library © Hazardous Waste Site State Owned Land Hurricane Evacuation & Transportation Corridor
ttt Cemetery Underground Storage Tank A Natural Heritage Elements (NHEO) Other STIP Projects
Agricultural Land ED Managed Natural Area Municipal Boundaries
o �s Jill Reges Store Rd
� _ �9 Acres Dr
4 Greene\
64
fit �
EB-5,85Y2 -
�
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a
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EB-5852
Nashville
58
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t-5026
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r
r
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-W'
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- y
a F
nshine Dr
..
Carriage Fad Rd
Co
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4 SPt ngNoP
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entry �n
' F� Golf Ra spring Mill Tray �- � U� pie Creek • Y• � r �.o� 'Nash
ced/racy/9h
- L - r Ra
� �IYtiL
NCDOT STIP Nos. R-5720 and U-5996
0 0.25 0.5 0.75
Figure 4. Environmental Features
Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road I bF
Miles
Prepared by: VHB Date: March 2019 Nash County`"{

fit' 12, vad" 1T 4 Sn 3'
i i ii
RwkW Wean
12, 12' 4'
&.-I kA a,
P4N4#d
ShoylClfd
EASTERN AVENUE TYPICAL SECTION
Figure 5-1: Eastern Avenue Typical Section STIP Nos. R-5720 and U-5996
Prepared by: VHB Date: March 2019 Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road
Nash County

t 12. 17' Varwx1F'-0"w23' Ir 12. 2' 111'
&-in' Mtdia� t�Jfrn1
N- OLD CARR LAG E ROAD TYPrC AL S E C TI Q N
(-5*uth Of US 64)
Figure 5-2: N. Old Carriage Road (South U.S. 64) Typical Section STIP Nos. R-5720 and U-5996
Prepared by: VHB Date: March 2019 Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road
Nash County

CL
IF 12'
Ap — 12' .f 12' IF
Sh kwf Shoulder
N_ 0LD C AR R I AG E ROAD TYPICAL SECTION
(North of US 64)
Figure 5-3: N. Old Carriage Road (North U.S. 64) Typical Section STIP Nos. R-5720 and U-5996
Prepared by: VHB Date: March 2019 Eastern Avenue and N. Old Carriage Road
Nash County

Castal is
S
Momeyer
a.,oa, J2 p
m
co c4
2Q • O
p�
rocky Mount p
� 64
1
i
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1
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r
• 43
DCIA 97
Demographic Study Area
Waterbody
Municipal Boundary
0 0.5 1 2 s e Figure 6: Demographic Study Area NCDOT STIP Nos. R-5720 and U-5996
Eastern Avenue and Old Carriage Road +'
Miles Prepared by: VHB Date: March 2019 Nash County

Appendix B - Preliminary Plans
Appendix B

Appendix C — Cultural Resources Correspondence
Appendix C

0
HISTORICRH CHITI) H AND `RA.DONCApES
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IM)p No igam M IM3 any M 61 am wltlenn W IAA IFaysn Awmed flam W
dg3 (And oak rom) m sR IM3 (ad QMNe Rom (m Wi demur spednm in
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FINDING BY Km� xiu WWJ waa<.pv "SURVEY nepUHUU)" roa�av
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go
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vi

Property [p be Evaluated
U-5996 and R-5720 WBS No. 47133.1.1 Nash County
Base map: HPOWeb, nls
and Outbuildings
#3033 Eastern Avenue
PIN:
PIN: 3821371192fA

Project Tracking No.:
18-10-0022
Development of a community college and/or law enforcement training facilities at the intersection of the
two projects was subjected to an archaeological review (ER 12-1340) and was not subjected to further
archaeological investigations.
As noted earlier, much of the remaining APE along Eastern Avenue (SR 1770) is currently agricultural land
with open, plowed fields, and probably has been for well over a century. With fieldwork occurring in the
wintertime, ground surface visibility was generally good in these winterized fields. For this reason,
pedestrian survey and visual inspection of the APE was most appropriate to identify archaeological sites on
these plowed, desirable and level landforms, a more efficient methodology, yielding better results than a
program of subsurface testing.
One previously recorded archaeological site (31Ns159) is located nearby, but outside of, the current APE.
Identified and evaluated as part of a pipeline project (ER 14-1475), the small Native American site was
determined to be not eligible for the NRHP. The overlapping portion of that pipeline investigation did not
yield any archaeological sites within this current APE.
Three new archaeological sites (31Nsl94, 31Nsl95, 31Nsl96) were identified as a result of the January
fieldwork, all historic scatters of mostly broken ceramics or glass beside of standing early 20ffi century
residences. Most of the artifacts, bottle glass, whiteware, porcelain, and terracotta, appear to be related to
the nearby houses. One isolated find held an apparent older age, a single fragment of an unscalloped blue
edged whiteware that dates from between 1840s and 1860s found on the surface at 31Nsl95. No other
artifacts were noted at this site. None of these small historic scatters located in a plowed, disturbed context,
are recommended as eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.
No previously recorded archaeological sites are located inside or immediately adjacent to the APE. Field
investigations, which included a multiple-transect surface survey of the plowed APE, yielded three new
historic archaeological sites, 31NsI94, 31Ns195 and 31Nsl96. The artifact fragments are generally
unremarkable, typical domestic wares likely associated with residences in the immediate surroundings.
Since there are no previously recorded or newly documented archaeological sites eligible or listed on the
NRHP identified within the APE, a finding of no National Register of Historic Places listed, or eligible sites
is appropriate.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Archaeology Group reviewed the subject
project and determined:
® There are no National Register listed or eligible ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES present
within the project's area of potential effects. (Attach any notes or documents as needed)
® No subsurface archaeological investigations were required for this project.
❑ Subsurface investigations did not reveal the presence of any archaeological resources.
❑ Subsurface investigations did not reveal the presence of any archaeological resources
considered eligible for the National Register.
® All identified archaeological sites located within the APE have been considered and all
compliance for archaeological resources with Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act and GS 121-12(a) has been completed for this project.
SUPPORT DOCUMENTATION
See attached: ® Map(s) ❑ Previous Survey Info ❑ Photos El Correspondence
Signed:
NCDOT ARCHAEOLOGIST
01/29/2019
Date
"NO NATIONAL REGISTER ELIGIBLE OR LISTED ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES PRESENT"
form for the Amended Minor Transportation Projects as Qualified in the 2007 Programmatic Agreement.
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