Reevaluation of Categorical Exclusion

Transcription

1 Reevaluation of Categorical Exclusion Route 659 Reconstruction to 4 Lanes VDOT Project No , B670, B671, C504, P101, R204 (UPC 76244) Loudoun County The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is proposing to widen Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659) from two to four lanes, from Hay Road (Route 642) to Gloucester Parkway (Route 2150). The proposed project is a right-of-way (RW) and construction (CN) phase of the preliminary engineering (PE) design completed under VDOT Project No , P102 (UPC 8828). In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and 23 CFR 771, a Categorical Exclusion was approved in 2007 by the Federal Highway Administration Virginia Division (FHWA) for the PE phase project. Although the proposed project s design is the same as the design evaluated in the 2007 Categorical Exclusion, no major actions or approvals to advance the project have occurred since design approval in Pursuant to 23 CFR , this reevaluation of the 2007 Categorical Exclusion is being prepared to determine what effects changes to the project s concept, to the affected environment, or to applicable environmental laws/regulations might have on the validity of the approved NEPA document. Background The preliminary engineering design for the proposed project began as part of the Route 659, Belmont Ridge Road Improvements Project (VDOT Project No , P102 / UPC 8828) which covered the 3.5-mile corridor from the Dulles Greenway (Route 267) to Harry Byrd Highway (Route 7). The project scope involves the widening of an existing two lane road to four lanes on six-lane right of way, providing shared-use paths, and constructing a bridge over the Washington and Old Dominion (W&OD) Railroad Regional Park, including the W&OD Trail. A Categorical Exclusion (CE) was prepared and accepted by the FHWA on October 15, 2007, confirming FHWA s preliminary approval on February 23, 2006 that the proposed project met the criteria for a CE level of NEPA documentation (Attachment A). The CE was made publicly available for review and comment at the Design Public Hearing held on December 10, Subsequently, major design features were approved by the VDOT s Chief Engineer on May 8, Proposed Action Project Description The Route 659 Reconstruction to 4 Lanes Project (VDOT Project No , B670, B671, C504, P101, R204 / UPC 76244) is located in eastern Loudoun County in northern Virginia (see Figure 1-1). The purpose of the proposed project is to address current and future traffic volumes along the corridor. The improvement of Belmont Ridge Road (between Gloucester Parkway and Hay Road) from a functionally obsolete rural two-lane facility to a fourlane median divided facility on a minimum 150-foot wide right-of-way will help relieve congestion at the intersections along the corridor and improve operation and safety of the corridor. The project includes a grade-separated crossing of Belmont Ridge Road over the W&OD Railroad Regional Park, shared use paths on both sides of Belmont Ridge Road with Page 1 of 9

2 direct connections to the W&OD Trail and to a trail network linking to residential communities to the east. Figure 1-1: Project Location Map Page 2 of 9

3 Logical Termini and Independent Utility Since the approval of the 2007 CE, there have been some changes within the original study limits. Improvements to Route 659 north of Gloucester Parkway were incorporated into an Environmental Assessment (EA) prepared for a proposed Route 7 / Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659) Interchange Project (VDOT Project No , B667, C501, D655, P101, R201 (UPC 99481)). Specifically, improving Route 659 to a four-lane divided roadway with a wide median was extended to Gloucester Parkway to establish a logical terminus for the interchange project. FHWA issued a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the Route 7 / Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659) Interchange Project in April 2013 and final design activities began with federal RW authorization in October Route 659 was also improved to a four-lane divided roadway from Hay Road to the Dulles Greenway by a county imposed developer proffer. Since the proffered road improvements occurred without federal funds and prior to the federal right-of-way authorization of the Route 659, Belmont Ridge Road Improvements Project, this segment of Route 659 is not considered irrevocably federalized from a NEPA standpoint. While 23 CFR (f) does not address reevaluations per se, the Route Reconstruction to Four Lane project meets the three general principles outlined in FHWA s regulation: 1. Connect logical termini and be of sufficient length to address environmental matters on a broad scope - The termini are logical in that the southern limits connect to a four-lane section of Route 659, and the northern limits connect to a planned four-lane section of Route 659 that is funded and in the right-of-way acquisition phase. Environmental issues throughout the entire corridor were addressed in the Route 659 Belmont Ridge Road Improvements CE. Additionally, the EA for Route 7 / Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659) Interchange Project addressed environmental issues to north of Gloucester Road. 2. Have independent utility or independent significance - The proposed project can function as stand-alone improvements without forcing other improvements which may have impacts; and 3. Not restrict consideration of alternatives for other reasonably foreseeable transportation improvements - The improvements related to the proposed project do not restrict consideration of other reasonably foreseeable transportation improvements. The other reasonably foreseeable transportation improvement in the immediate vicinity of the project is the Route 7 / Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659) Interchange Project. Right-of-way is currently being acquired for this project; therefore, the scope of that project is set and location alternatives are no longer under consideration. Typical Section Lane width will remain at existing condition (12 feet) and number of traffic lanes will increase from two to four lanes on a minimum 150-foot right-of-way. Additionally, the project will include grade-separated crossing of Belmont Ridge Road over the W&OD Trail, shared use Page 3 of 9

4 paths on both sides of Belmont Ridge Road with direct connections to the W&OD Trail and to a trail network linking to residential communities to the east. Financial Constraint The proposed project is listed in an approved, financially constrained FFY15-18 STIP/TIP approved by FHWA/FTA on September 30, Subsequent phases for RW and CN will be funded through local revenue contributions (see Figure 1-2). Figure 1-2: Local Revenue Contributions Page 4 of 9

5 Environmental Review Socio-Economics Low income/minority populations are present within the project area and will not be impacted by the proposed project. The impacts from the project are not predominantly borne by this population and the effect is not greater in magnitude for this population than for nonminority/non low-income populations. Although an Environmental Justice (EJ) population is present there are no impacts to the EJ population (i.e., no relocations, no displacements, no disruption of community, and no disruption of emergency services). No minority or low-income populations have been identified that would be adversely impacted by the proposed project as determined above. Therefore, in accordance with the provisions of E.O and FHWA Order , no further EJ analysis is required. Community services and publicly owned recreation facilities are present within the project area; impacts from grade-separated crossing of Belmont Ridge Road over W&OD Railroad Regional Park will be minor and will not adversely affect the park. The crossing upgrade will be constructed in accordance with Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA) standards for vertical and horizontal clearances over the W&OD Trail. The project will include shared use paths on both sides of the road with connections to W&OD Trail. No adverse impacts anticipated on the Belmont Elementary School. Road closures, right-of-way abandonment, and interruption of emergency access onto the W&OD Railroad Regional Park may impact emergency responders. There are existing and planned bicycle/pedestrian facilities within the project area. Route 659 crossed over the W&OD trail which is a regional bicycle and pedestrian facility. Per the Loudoun County Transportation Plan, Route 659 is planned to have four lanes and is therefore also planned to have a 10 foot wide shared use path. The proposed project will accommodate the planned and existing facilities by providing a shared use path on either side of the roadway; by providing direct connections to the existing W&OD trail; and by providing a grade-separated intersection at the W&OD trail. The proposed project will not disrupt any existing or planned communities. The proposed project is an existing facility that will be upgraded. Per the Loudoun County Countywide Transportation Plan, Route 659 in the location of the proposed project is planned as four lanes and several previous land developments along Route 659 have already accommodated the rightof-way for the proposed widening. The project is consistent with the Loudoun County s Comprehensive Plan and more specifically with the Revised General Plan, which envisions this segment of Route 659 as a dividing line between residential communities on the east side and business and other land uses on the west side. Page 5 of 9

6 Cultural Resources On June 5, 2014, the Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR) concurred with VDOT s recommendation that the W&OD Railroad Historic District retains sufficient integrity to remain eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and that the six recorded properties; identified as DHR inventory numbers , , , , , and ; are neither individually eligible or eligible as contributing resources to the historic district. Subsequently, the DHR provided their concurrence with VDOT on July 18, 2014 that the proposed project will have No Adverse Effect on the W&OD Railroad Historic District and no additional cultural resources investigation was necessary. Section 4(f) and 6(f) As previously noted, the W&OD Railroad Historic District is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. VDOT recommended a No Adverse Effect determination and informed DHR of FHWA s intent to make a de minimis finding; DHR provided their concurrence with VDOT on July 18, W&OD Railroad Regional Park, a Section 4(f) and Section 6(f) property is a public park, with funding from the Land Conservation and Water Act (LCWA). The estimated area of impact to parkland is approximately 1.64 acres. The project will require approximately 0.42 acre of permanent easements and 1.12 acres of temporary construction easements. The use of this property comes in the form of drainage improvements, a bridge crossing at Belmont Ridge Road over the W&OD Railroad Regional Park, and shared use paths on both sides of Belmont Ridge Road with direct connections to the W&OD Trail and to a trail network linking residential communities to the east. A parking area for users will be constructed with an access path to the W&OD Trail and no piers or structures of the bridges will occur within W&OD Railroad Regional Park property. NVRPA concurred with VDOT on November 3, 2014 that the permanent and temporary construction easements would not adversely impact the W&OD Railroad Regional Park; and, based on the proposed design, impacts to park property that could be expected as a result of the project would not adversely affect the activities, features, and attributes of the Section 4(f) property. NVRPA concurrence was granted with the understanding that VDOT will consult with NVRPA as project development proceeds. FHWA made a finding of de minimis impact for the W&OD Railroad Regional Park/W&OD Railroad Historic District on November 4, 2014 (Attachment B). With regard to Section 6(f), NVRPA informed VDOT in an dated December 18, 2013 that the finding in the original letter dated September 26, 2007 from Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is still valid. In that letter DCR advised NVRPA that there is no conversion or use of the 6(f) property. NVRPA concurred on November 3, 2014 that there are no permanent easements and that temporary easements are less than six months, and NVRPA has granted a license for areas that require temporary easements greater than six months. As such there are no 6(f) conversions on W&OD Railroad Regional Park property. Natural Resources Three unnamed tributaries of Goose Creek would be crossed by the project and result in approximately 521 feet of stream impacts. VDOT conducted a database search and coordinated Page 6 of 9

7 with Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and DCR for potential threatened and endangered species in the project area; no species were identified. The project crosses a flood area located approximately 1300 feet south of Route 7. Per FEMA Floodplain Map 51107C0235D, this flood area is designated Zone X, which is characterized as an area of 500-year flood, an area of 100- year flood with an average depth of less than 1 foot or with a drainage area of less than one square mile, or an area protected by levees from a 100-year flood. Approximately 0.75 acres of jurisdictional areas (streams and wetlands) would be impacted, which would require an SPGP and VWP General Permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, respectively. Due to design changes related to drainage improvements there will be additional impacts to jurisdictional waters of the U.S. primarily associated with the outfalls of SWM5 and SWM6. These additional impact quantities could affect the permitting such that a COE Individual Permit would be required. Also, additional impacts will require additional compensatory mitigation. No T&E species are within the required search distance. Agricultural/Open Space Agricultural/Forrestal Districts and Open Space Easements are not present within the project footprint. Farmland The entire area is either zoned for or is in urban or industrial use. No agriculture or farmland is present in the project area. Invasive Species Based on site visits by VDOT, invasive species are likely to be present in the project area. DCR has only general information about the distribution of invasive species. Many invasive species are adapted to take advantage of soil disturbances and poor soil conditions. Non-native invasive plants are found throughout Virginia. Therefore the potential exists for some VDOT projects to further the establishment of invasive species. Minimizing soil disturbance will help to inhibit the establishment of invasive species. Noxious weeds common to Virginia are the Purple Loosestrife and the European Wand Loosestrife. Air Quality The proposed project is exempt under 40 CFR The clearance also references traffic forecasts for the project that are below current thresholds at which modeling would be required. In addition, the previous air study (conducted before the current thresholds for carbon monoxide were established) addressed air quality impacts. Noise Due to the changes in FHWA s Noise Abatement Regulations (23 CFR 772) and new developments in the project area since the 2007 Noise Impact Analysis Technical Report, VDOT determined that a new noise study would be prudent. A Final Design Noise Analysis was completed in June 2014 to evaluate potential traffic noise impacts and abatement measures associated with the proposed Route 659 Reconstruction to Four Lanes Project. Potential Page 7 of 9

8 traffic noise impacts were assessed in accordance with the current procedures and criteria approved by the FHWA and VDOT. A total of 212 noise sensitive sites were modeled in the project study area representing 271 residences, and eight recreational sites at Founder s Park. A total of 21 residences represented by 21 noise sensitive sites, are predicted to be impacted by traffic noise under the future design year (2036) build condition, due to levels approaching or exceeding the FHWA s Noise Abatement Criteria (NAC). For all sites studied, the future design year (2036) build noise levels are predicted to range from 40 to 69 decibels (dba). Noise abatement measures were evaluated where future noise impacts were predicted to occur. Three barrier systems were evaluated as part of the final design noise analysis, which include proposed and existing noise barriers. Barrier System 1 would be located along the Route 659 northbound lane from Hay Road to north of Chesterton Street. The barrier system was broken down into five separate noise barriers due to the need to provide access to the shared use path within the Common Noise Environment. Barrier System 1 would benefit 11 impacted receptors and 50 non-impacted receptors. Barrier System 1 was determined to be warranted, feasible and reasonable. Barrier System 2 consists of 2 separate noise barriers located along Route 659 northbound lane in the vicinity of Belmont Station Drive and would benefit 4 noise impacted receptors. While Barrier System 2 was determined warranted and feasible, it was not reasonable. Barrier System 3 was found to be both feasible and reasonable under the VDOT's State Noise Abatement Policy. While this barrier system, located east of Route 659 and north of Gloucester Parkway, will be constructed under the Route 7 / Belmont Ridge Road (Route 659) Interchange Project, it was evaluated as an existing barrier for this analysis and there were no noise impacts identified behind this barrier in the design year Subsequently, Barrier System 3 was not reevaluated for reasonableness and feasibility per the VDOT's State Noise Abatement Policy. Construction activity may cause intermittent fluctuations in noise levels. During the construction phase of the project, all reasonable measures will be taken to minimize noise impact from these activities. Right-of-Way and Relocations The project will require approximately 34 acres of right-of-way, including one total acquisition of 0.50-acre of vacant land. Of the 34 acres, approximately 16 acres is fee simple acquisition, 17 acres is permanent easements, and 0.06 acre is utility easements. Hazardous Materials VDOT assessed the potential for hazardous materials and/or contamination within the Project area. While no known hazardous materials condition within the existing right of way is anticipated, Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) will need to be performed prior to acquisition of any new right-of-way or permanent easements. Page 8 of 9

9 Cumulative and Indirect Impacts Loudoun County currently has a design underway for the construction of an interchange at the intersection Route 7 (Harry Byrd Highway) and Route 659 (Belmont Ridge Road) from Route 7 (Harry Byrd Highway to Route 2150 (Gloucester Parkway). Additionally, Loudoun County has one zoning application for a future development along Belmont Ridge Road. When combined with the proposed action the intensity of the incremental impacts of these projects are not considered significant, when viewed in the context of impacts from other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions and would not rise to a level that would cause significant cumulative or indirect impacts. Public Outreach The CE for the Route 659 Belmont Ridge Road Improvements Project was made available for public review and comment at a Design Public Hearing meeting held on December 10, 2007 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Stone Bridge High School in Ashburn, Virginia. The attendance sheet contained 118 signatures. Oral comments were received from 1 speaker and written comments were received from 78 citizens: 14 comments about air quality and noise/sound wall issues, 12 comments about view shed impact concerns, 4 commented about impacts to a historic graveyard and 4 commented about impacts/access at W&OD Trail crossing. There was no substantial controversy on environmental grounds, there is however opposition to the project from the Coalition for Smarter Growth, who is largely focused on concerns of sprawl and additional traffic (Loudoun County Scoping Letter). By resolution dated July 15, 2008, the Loudoun Board of County Supervisors endorsed the plans for Belmont Ridge Road from Harry Byrd Highway (Route 7) to the Dulles Greenway (Route 267) as presented at the VDOT public hearing. Additionally, the Board of Supervisors further requested VDOT to continue work on the road improvement project on Belmont Ridge Road with the phasing for the first segment for construction to be the half section from Portsmouth Boulevard to Gloucester Parkway. A Public Notice for this Reevaluation of Categorical Exclusion will be published in at least three locally accessible newspapers. The document will be available for 15 days for public review and comment at the VDOT- Northern Virginia District Office, and on the VDOT s website under the Northern Virginia Projects page. Summary and Conclusion The Virginia Department of Transportation believes that this reevaluation demonstrates that the Route 659 Reconstruction to Four Lanes Project referenced above continues to meet the criteria for a Categorical Exclusion pursuant to 40 CFR and 23 CFR and will not result in significant impacts to the human or natural environment. Page 9 of 9

10 Attachment A

11 Categorical Exclusion (CE) Project Information Project Name: Route 659, Belmont Ridge Road Improvements Federal Project#: STP-053-9(021) Project Number: , P102 Project Type: Construction UPC: 8828 Charge Number: Route Number: 659 Route Type: Secondary Project Limit--From: DULLES GREENWAY (ROUTE 267) To: ROUTE 7 (HARRY BYRD HIGHWAY) Additional Project Description: Widen existing 2-lane road to 4 lanes on 6 lane right of way, provide shared-use paths, and bridge crossing of W&OD Railroad Regional Park, also known as the W&OD Trail. District: City/County: Residency: Northern Virginia Loudoun Leesburg Date CE level document approved by VA Division FHWA: 02/23/2006 FHWA Contact: Sundra, Ed Project in STIP: Yes In Long Range Plan? Yes CE Category 23 CFR : d01 Description of Category: Modernization of a highway by resurfacing, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, adding shoulders, or adding auxiliary lanes (e.g. parking, weaving, turning, climbing). Logical Termini and Independent Utility: Yes Comments: Rt. 659 (Belmont Ridge Road) is a secondary roadway and classified as a Rural Major Collector. The existing two-lane roadway has approximately 20 feet of asphalt pavement with minimal shoulders and a 50-foot right of way (ROW). The project has a logical terminus at the southern end at the intersection of Rt. 267 (Dulles Greenway); the northern end has a logical terminus at Rt. 7/Harry Byrd Highway where the roadway ties into the existing intersection. The total project is approximately 3.40 miles. The existing two-lane roadway is inadequate for current traffic volumes. The project will improve traffic flow and safety in the corridor. The widening will also help relieve congestion at the Rt. 7 intersection. The Rt. 7 intersection is a major bottleneck where rock quarry trucks hold up traffic due to turning movements. The project provides independent utility by addressing current and future traffic volumes and ongoing developments along the Rt. 659 corridor. Typical Section: The roadway would consist of four 12-foot lanes on a minimum 150-foot six-lane) ROW, with turning lanes, mountable curb and gutter on the outside, eight-foot median shoulders, 10-foot shared use paths on each side, and a 42-foot depressed grass median. Additional ROW width may be needed for turning lanes at major intersections, storm-water management basins, increased curve radii, grading, sound barriers, and other associated items. Structures: There are two box culverts at one unnamed stream crossing and separate bridges for the north-bound and south-bound lanes spanning the W&OD Railroad Regional Park (W&ODRRP, known locally as W&OD Trail) Page 1 of 5 10/15/2007

12 SOCIO-ECONOMIC Minority/Low Income Populations: Not Present Disproportionate Impacts to Minority/Low Income Populations: No Source: US Census Bureau Fact Sheets and Factfinder for zipcode Existing or Planned Public Recreational Facilities: Present with no impact Community Services: Present with no impact Consistent with Local Land Use: Yes Source: Loudoun County ADC map; VDOT site visits; Loudoun County Office of Transportation Services; Loudoun County Planning Dept.; Loudoun County Fire, Rescue & Emergency Services; Comprehensive Plan Existing or Planned Bicycle/Pedestrian Facilities Present with no impact Source: Loudoun County Planning Department Socio-Economic Comments: Based on the 2000 Census, minority or low income populations are not present in project area. Project includes improving at-grade intersection with the W&OD Railroad Regional Park (W&ODRRP, also known as W&OD Trail) by constructing bridges over the trail. The W&ODRRP is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The crossing upgrade would be in accordance with Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA) policies with no piers in the W&ORRP R/W. Project will include shared use paths on both sides of the road with connections to W&ODRRP. No adverse impacts anticipated on the Belmont Elementary School. Road closures, R/W abandonment, re-naming of streets, and interruption of emergency access onto the W&ODRRP may impact emergency responders. Planned uses in the project corridor are "keynote" employment, business, general industrial, heavy industry, community center and residential. The project is consistent with proposed land uses and zoning. SECTION 4(f) and SECTION 6(f) Use of 4(f) Property: Yes 4(f) Evaluations: Selected Evaluation(1): Acres of Use: 0.36 Type of Use: Permanent Type of Resource: Public Park Name of Resource: W&OD Railroad Regional Park (W&ODRRP) Comments: W&ODRRP is a public park and also eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The project would require 0.36 acre of permanent maintenance easement and 0.45 acre of temporary easement.additional information is included in the Section 4(f) de minimis Impact Finding Checklist. De Minimis: Yes The officials with jurisdiction have concurred that the transportation use of the Section 4(f) resource, together with any impact avoidance, minimization, and mitigation or enhancement measures incorporated into the project, does not adversely affect the activities, features, and attributes that qualify the resource for protection under Section 4(f). Based on this FHWA intends to make a De minimis impact finding. Source: VDOT project plans, Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, Loudoun County Planning Department 6(f) Conversion: No Acres of Conversion: 0 4(f) and 6(f) Comments: Constructed shared use paths will provide connection to the right of way of the W&ODRRP, a 4(f)/6(f) property. A parking area for users will be constructed with an access path to W&ODRRP. No piers or structures of the bridges will occur within W&ODRRP R/W. NVRPA concurred with VDOT that temporary construction easements would not permanently adversely impact the W&ODRRP, and, based on the proposed design, impacts to park property that could be expected to result from the project would not adversely affect activities, features, and attributes of the park; NVRPA concurrence was granted with the understanding that VDOT will consult with NVRPA as project development proceeds. DCR advised NVRPA that there is no conversion or use of the 6(f) property. CULTURAL RESOURCES Section 106 Effect Determination: NO ADVERSE EFFECT Name of Historic Property: W&OD Railroad Regional Park (W&ODRRP) DHR Concurrence date: 08/27/2007 National Register eligible MOA Execution Date: None Cultural Resource Comments: VDOT conducted an architectural resources survey and determined that no structure in the project area was individually eligible for the NRHP and no structure was a contributing element to a historic district. The W&ODRRP had been determined NRHP-eligible. VDOT conducted an archaeological resources survey and determined that potential archaeological resources were present in proposed R/W. A Phase II archaeological survey was conducted and no significant resource was identified. Excavations were conducted in proposed easement near African-American cemetery at Rt. 7; no additional burials or other archaeological features were identified. VDOT coordinated with NVRPA in design of crossing over W&ODRRP to ensure impacts would be minimal. VDHR concurred with VDOT recommendations of no effect on the cemetery and the effect on W&ODRRP would not be adverse Page 2 of 5 10/15/2007

13 NATURAL RESOURCES Waters of the U.S.: Present with impacts Compensatory Mitigation Required Linear Feet of Impact: 521 Federal Threatened or Endangered Species: None T&E Review: No T&E Species are within the required search distance. As of 01/29/2007 S Pomeroy 100 Year Floodplain: Not Present Regulatory Floodway Zone: Not Present Public Water Supplies: Not Present Tidal Waters/Wetlands: Not Present Wetlands: Present with impacts Wetlands: Acres of Impact: 0.75 Wetland Type: Forested Permits Required: Yes Natural Resource Comments: Three unnamed tributaries of Goose Creek would be crossed by the project and result in approximately 521 feet of stream impacts. VDOT Natural Resources staff conducted a data search of the DGIF data base and coordinated with Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and DCR for potential threatened and endangered species in the project area; no species were identified. The project crosses a flood area located approximately 1300 feet south of Rt.7. Per FEMA Floodplain Map 51107C0235D, this flood area is designated Zone X, which is characterized as an area of 500-year flood, an area of 100-year flood with an average depth of less than 1 foot or with a drainage area of less than one square mile, or an area protected by levees from a 100-year flood. Four jurisdictional areas (streams and wetlands) would be impacted. AGRICULTURAL/OPEN SPACE Open Space Easements: Not Present Agricultural/Forestal Districts: Not Present Source: VDOT Comprehensive Environmental Data and Reporting System (CEDAR) GIS Integrator, Virginia Outdoors Plan, Natural Resources and Conservation Service District Conservationist, Loudoun County Planning Dept, Agricultural/Open Space Comments: No open space easements or agricultural/forestal districts are present in the project area. FARMLAND NRCS Form CPA-106 Attached? No NRCS Form CPA-106 not attached because: Land already in Urban use. Entire project in area not zoned agriculture. Alternatives Analysis Required? No Source: Census Bureau Urbanized Map; Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, Aerial photos, Site visits Farmland Comments: The entire area is either zoned for or is in urban or industrial use. No agriculture or farmland is present in the project area. INVASIVE SPECIES Invasive Species in the project area? Unknown VDCR indicated that the potential exists for some VDOT projects to further the establishment of invasive species. All seeds used will be tested in accordance with the Virginia Seed Law to ensure there are not prohibited Noxious Weed-Seeds in the seed mixes. Invasive Species Comments: Based on site visits by VDOT, invasive species are likely present in the project area. DCR has only general information about the distribution of invasives. Many invasive plant species are adapted to take advantage of soil disturbances and poor soil conditions. Non-native invasive plants are found throughout Virginia. Therefore, the potential exists for some VDOT projects to further the establishment of invasive species. Soil disturbances will be minimized to the extent feasible to inhibit the establishment of invasive species in the disturbed areas. Only approved seeds will be used for stabilization Page 3 of 5 10/15/2007

14 AIR QUALITY Carbon Monoxide This project is located in: A Carbon Monoxide Attainment Area CO Microscale Analysis Required for NEPA? Yes Study completed and uploaded to CEDAR in June This air form was completed August 2007 following the implementation of a new air form format on CEDAR. Ozone This project is located in: An 8-hour Ozone Nonattainment Area This project is modeled properly for conformity in the 2006 LRP. Particulate Matter This project is located in: A PM2.5 Maintenance Area This project is modeled properly for conformity in the 2006 LRP. PM Hotspot Analysis Required for NEPA? Yes A qualitiative analysis was included with the air study completed and uploaded to CEDAR in June Mobile Source Air Toxicse This project requires: A qualitative MSAT analysis The project potentially expands intermodal centers or impacts truck traffic only to the exent that requires a qualitative assessment. A qualitiative analysis was included with the air study completed and uploaded to CEDAR in June NOISE Noise Scoping Decision: Type I - Noise study required Barriers Under Consideration? Yes Noise Comments: Twenty sites (48 residential properties) are impacted by design-year build conditions. Two sites are impacted under existing and no-build conditions. Four noise barriers appear feasible, but only one would be reasonable. The reasonable barrier would protect 6 sites (18 residential properties) and benefit 10 additional sites (23 residential properties). No schools or churches are present. A noise impact is not predicted to occur at the W&ODRRP under design year conditions, but would occur under existing and no-build conditions. No noise impacts to commercial facilities are predicted. RIGHT OF WAY AND RELOCATIONS Residential Relocations: Yes Number of Residential Relocations: 2 Commercial Relocations No Non-Profit Relocations: No Right of Way required? Yes Amount of Right of Way Acreage: 27 Septic Systems or Wells: Present with impacts Hazardous Materials: Not Present Source: Loudoun County Health Department; VDOT Location & Design memo 6/16/05; VDOT R/W Data Sheets; Loudoun County Health Department; VDOT CEDAR GIS Integrator; VDOT Hazardous Materials Manager ROW and Relocations Comments: VDOT Location and Design estimates that two residential relocations would be required; no non-profit, commercial, or industrial relocations would be required. Loudoun County Health Department initially stated that all properties in close proximity to the roadway have been placed on public sewer; it was later determined that the septic system of one property would be impacted and it will be connected to public sewer. Loudoun County Health Department stated three properties with wells may be impacted. VDOT data searches indicated a public water supply at Goose Creek Reservoir. Virginia Department of Health did not provide any comments. The Project has been cleared by VDOT Regional Hazardous Materials Manager. VDOT GIS Integrator searches and searches of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality hazardous waste databases revealed no hazardous materials in the project area Page 4 of 5 10/15/2007

15 CUMULATIVE AND INDIRECT IMPACTS Present or reasonably foreseeable future projects (highway and non-highway) in the area: Yes Impact same resources as the proposed highway project (i.e. cumulative impacts): Yes Indirect (Secondary) impacts: Yes Source: Loudoun County Planning Dept. Cumulative and Indirect Impacts Comments: The project area is zoned for offices parks, industries, commercial development and residential development. Road improvements south of the project area are underway or planned. The project will result in a minor cumulative increase in the impervious surface in the area with increased runoff managed by basins. In the project area, and along its length, the W&ODRRP has been and is being encroached on and its setting compromised. In the project vicinity, residential development has occurred adjacent to W&ODRRP, and roads constructed parallel to it. The incremental impact of the project on the W&ODRRP is not significant in the context of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects. The loss of both wetlands and forest lands at the regional level from past land practices and development is well documented. The incremental impact of the project on these resources would not be considered significant in the context of the impact from past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT Substantial Controversy on Environmental Grounds: No Source: Loudoun County Planning Department coordination and comments, and VA agencies reviews Public Hearing: Yes Type of Hearing: Combined Hearing Other Public Involvement Activities: No Type of Public Involvement: Public Involvement Comments: No Public Hearning or other Public Involvement Activity has occurred at time of this document preparation. A public hearing is anticipated for December COORDINATION State Agencies: Department of Health DEQ - Air Division DEQ - Water Division Department of Conservation and Recreation Department of Forestry Dept. of Mines, Minerals and Energy Department of Game and Inland Fisheries Department of Historic Resources Local Entity: Loudoun Housing Director Loudoun Public Works Loudoun County Administrator Loudoun Parks and Recreation Loudoun County Health Department Loudoun Office of Transportation Loudoun Economic Development Office Loudoun County Board Of Supervisors Loudoun Regional Park Authority Loudoun Superintendent of Schools Loudoun County Board Of Supervisors Loudoun Planning District Loudoun Regional Park Authority Loudoun Regional Park Authority Loudoun Fire and Rescue Other Coordination Entities: City of Fairfax Dept. of Utilities Loudoun County Sanitation Authority USDA District Conservationist Loudoun County Dept. of Social Services Loudoun County Div. of Environmental Health Federal Agencies: NRCS This project meets the criteria for a Categorical Exclusion pursuant to 40 CFR and 23 CFR and will not result in significant impacts to the human or natural environment Page 5 of 5 10/15/2007

16 Attachment B

17 From: To: Cc: Subject: Date: Muse, John C. (VDOT) Brown, Anissa (VDOT) RE: VDOT Project No , P101, R204/UPC Belmont Ridge Road Reconstruction/Rte. 659 in Loudoun County Tuesday, November 04, :02:31 PM John, We hereby make a finding of de minimis impact for the W&OD Railroad Regional Park/W&OD Railroad Historic District. John John Simkins Planning and Environment Team Leader FHWA - Virginia Division (804) John.Simkins@dot.gov From: Muse, John C. (VDOT) [mailto:john.muse@vdot.virginia.gov] Sent: Tuesday, November 04, :28 PM To: Simkins, John (FHWA) Cc: Brown, Anissa (VDOT) Subject: VDOT Project No , P101, R204/UPC Belmont Ridge Road Reconstruction/Rte. 659 in Loudoun County John, The subject project to widen Route 659 to four lanes involves constructing a bridge over the W&OD Railroad Regional Park (i.e., W&OD Trail). In December 2013, VDOT obtained preliminary concurrence from the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NVRPA) of VDOT s assessment that the project will not permanently adversely affect the W&OD Railroad Regional Park. A 15-day Public Notice (attached) was published in three readily available newspapers: Papers to Publish Dates to Publish Washington Post August 29 Loudoun Times-Mirror September 3 El Tiempo Latino September 5 No comments were received from the Public Notice and VDOT obtained NVRPA s final concurrence with Section 4(f) applicability criteria for temporary occupancy and de minimis impacts on November 3, I have attached their signed final concurrence letter which is conditioned on: The temporary construction easements will not be occupied for anytime greater than 6 months. The permanent easements will be in the form of a drainage easements and an aerial easement for the bridge.

18 A minimum vertical clearance of 14.5 feet above the highest point in the trail under the bridge and no bridge supports/piers on W&OD Railroad Regional Park property. Parkland will be restored to NVRPA specifications. Continuity of trail traffic will be maintained during construction. Lastly, VDOT coordinated Section 106 with VDHR to obtain a No Adverse Effect concurrence on July 7, No further Section 4(f) analysis for eligible historic resources was necessary. Based upon the above information and attachments, VDOT is requesting a Section 4(f) de minimis finding from FHWA. If any additional information is needed, please let me know. John C. Muse District Environmental Manager Virginia Department of Transportation 4975 Alliance Drive Fairfax, Virginia (o) (c)

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26