Draft Environmental Assessment Presque Isle State Park Road Realignment and Dune Construction Project Erie County, PA August 2010 Federal Emergency Management Agency Department of Homeland Security 500 C Street, SW Washington, DC 20472 This document was prepared by: URS Corporation 335 Commerce Drive, Suite 300 Fort Washington, PA 19034 Prepared for: FEMA Region III Office Philadelphia, PA 19106-4404 Contract No. HSFEHQ-06-D-0162 Task Order No. HSFEHQ-06-J-0050: JPDM-JES 15300590.00300 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Project Authority 1.2 Project Location 1.3 Project Setting 2.0 PURPOSE AND NEED 3.0 ALTERNATIVES 3.1 Alternative 1: No Action 3.2 Alternative 2: Road Realignment and Dune Construction Project (Proposed Action) 3.3 Alternatives Considered and Dismissed 3.3.1 Alternative 3 - Old Lake Road Closure 3.3.2 Alternative 4 - Breakwater Construction 4.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND IMPACTS 4.1 Geology and Soils 4.2 Water Resources 4.2.1 Surface Water 4.2.2 Groundwater 4.2.3 Floodplains 4.2.4 Waters of the U.S. Including Wetlands 4.3 Transportation 4.4 Environmental Justice 4.5 Air Quality 4.6 Noise 4.7 Biological Resources 4.8 Cultural Resources 4.9 Hazardous Materials 4.10 Safety 4.11 Socioeconomic Resources 4.12 Summary 5.0 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS 6.0 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT 7.0 AGENCY COORDINATION 8.0 CONCLUSIONS 9.0 REFERENCES 10.0 LIST OF PREPARERS Appendix A Figures Appendix B Agency Coordination Appendix C Photograph Log BHP Pennsylvania Bureau for Historic Preservation BMP Best Management Practice CAA Clean Air Act CBRA Coastal Barrier Resources Act CEQ Council on Environmental Quality CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act CERCLIS Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information System CFR Code of Federal Regulations CO carbon monoxide CWA Clean Water Act CWF Cold Water Fishes CZMA Coastal Zone Management Act dB decibel DCNR Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources DFIRM Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map DNL Day-Night Average Sound Level EA Environmental Assessment EIS Environmental Impact Statement EO Executive Order EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map FONSI Finding of No Significant Impact FPPA Farmland Protection Policy Act NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards NEPA National Environmental Policy Act NHPA National Historic Preservation Act NO2 Nitrogen Dioxide NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System NPL National Priorities List NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service NRHP National Register of Historic Places O3 Ozone OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration PADEP Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Pb Lead PDM Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program PDM-JES Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program - Joint Explanatory Statement PGC Pennsylvania Game Commission PM Particulate Matter PNDI Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act SO2 Sulfur Dioxide SWPPP Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers USCB U.S. Census Bureau USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service USGS U.S. Geological Survey 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 PROJECT AUTHORITY The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has applied to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for assistance with a road realignment and dune construction project in Presque Isle State Park (the Park), in Erie County, Pennsylvania. The project is a congressionally directed Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) project assigned application number LPDM-PJ-03-PA-2008-001. PDM is a pre-disaster grant program authorized by Section 203 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act), 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq., as amended by Section 102 of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. Funding for the program is provided through the National Pre-Disaster Mitigation Fund to assist States and local governments (including Indian Tribal governments) in implementing cost-effective hazard mitigation activities that complement comprehensive mitigation programs aimed at reducing injuries, loss of life, and damage and destruction of property. In accordance with Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Subpart B, Agency Implementing Procedures, Part 10.9, this Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) has been prepared pursuant to Section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), as implemented by the regulations promulgated by the Presidents Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ; 40 CFR Parts 1500 - 1508). The purpose of the Draft EA is to analyze the potential environmental impacts of the proposed alternatives, including the proposed project, and to determine whether to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or issue a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). 1.2 PROJECT LOCATION The proposed project is located in the northwest corner of Pennsylvania, within the Presque Isle State Park, Erie County, Pennsylvania (see Figure 1 in Appendix A). 1.3 PROJECT SETTING Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200-acre peninsula located on the southern shore of Lake Erie in Erie, Pennsylvania. The peninsula, which arches toward the east into Lake Erie, partially surrounds Presque Isle Bay, a wide and deep harbor for the City of Erie. The peninsula is a re-curved sand spit composed predominantly of sand, pebble, and cobble carried by littoral currents and deposited to form the spit. The peninsula has historically been subject to the forces of erosion, particularly on the Lake Erie side of the peninsula, as sand moves from west to east and is deposited on the east side of the peninsula near Presque Isle Bay. Consequently, the peninsula also has a history of land use that includes an extensive segmented breakwater system and regular beach nourishment projects carried out by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Presque Isle State Park is considered a unique heritage park as it contains the only "seashore" area in Pennsylvania. Land use within the Park is primarily recreational, and includes fishing, swimming, cross-country skiing, bird watching, boating, hiking, biking, and hunting. A variety of habitat types exist within the Park, such as successional dunes, wetland complexes, forests, and meadows. Wildlife and birds are common in the Park and the Park is managed for both ecosystem health and human use. The proposed project area includes two sections of Old Lake Road, including a multi-purpose recreational trail, which are located approximately 100 to 200 feet from Lake Erie parallel to the shoreline on the northern shore of Presque Isle. The project area includes eroded dune, fragments of disturbed forest, road/trail bed, unimproved (dirt) parking lots, and an overhead power line right-of-way. No structures or buildings are located within the project area, although bathhouses serving Beaches #6 and #8 are located nearby. Two small, isolated wetland areas are near the project area, but no streams, creeks, or other drainage features are present. 2.0 PURPOSE AND NEED The purpose of the FEMA PDM-JES program is to provide funding to assist States and local governments (including Indian Tribal governments) in implementing cost-effective hazard mitigation activities that complement comprehensive mitigation programs, and reduce injuries, loss of life, and damage and destruction of property. The purpose of this action is to provide PDM-JES funding to DCNR for flood mitigation activities in Presque Isle State Park. Presque Isle State Park is Pennsylvania's highest attended State recreational facility with approximately 4,000,000 visitors per year. The Park provides visitors with a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking. Presque Isle State Park has experienced roadway flooding when storm and seiche events (e.g., standing waves in an enclosed body of water) cause large waves from Lake Erie to breach the dunes and wash over park access roads. The Presque Isle breakwater project, completed in 1992, mitigated the majority of roadway flooding. However, there are two locations along the park roads where flooding still occurs several times per year during lower lake elevations, and more frequently during higher lake elevations. The Park requested FEMA assistance in 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008 in responding to these storm and seiche events. The average monetary damage from these five years was $181,951. The Park has two roads that are heavily used by visitors. Peninsula Road is the main park access road. It is a four-lane road that extends over two-thirds the length of the Park, transitioning near the farthest end of the spit into a two-lane loop road that encircles the Park. Old Lake Road, the original two-lane access road, extends along the shoreline on the western side of the peninsula, and is the only access road to parking for the 13 permitted park beaches, to other park shoreline recreational facilities, and for emergency vehicle access. The dunes along the shoreline have eroded at two locations and no longer protect inland areas from large waves. Each time waves breach the dunes and wash over Old Lake Road, water floods the adjacent portions of roadway and subsequently floods Peninsula Road, often forcing its closure and the evacuation of visitors from this section of the Park. The purpose and need for this project is to reduce or eliminate flood damage to Presque Isle State Park property and to prevent the closure of park access roads and the subsequent inaccessibility of park recreational facilities by visitors and emergency vehicle traffic. The proposed project would include the realignment of Old Lake Road and the construction of a barrier beach dune in the two areas. One of these areas would also require the re-location of an existing overhead electric utility line so that the utility poles would remain aligned with the road. 3.0 ALTERNATIVES This section describes the alternatives that were considered in addressing the purpose and need stated in Section 2 above. Four alternatives were considered as potential solutions to the Park's visitor and emergency vehicle access issues caused by the flooding of Old Lake Road in two locations during storm events. Two alternatives were carried forward for further evaluation in this EA: the No Action Alternative (Alternative 1), and the Proposed Action Alternative (Alternative 2), which is the realignment of Old Lake Road and creation of barrier dunes. The other alternatives considered, the Old Lake Road Closure Alternative (Alternative 3) and the Breakwater Construction Alternative (Alternative 4), were not carried forward for further evaluation in this EA for the reasons discussed below. 3.1 ALTERNATIVE 1: NO ACTION Under the No Action Alternative, the two flood-affected sections of Old Lake Road would not be realigned, barrier beach dunes would not be constructed, and utilities would not be relocated. The two areas would continue to flood and there would be potential for the flooding to extend to other access roads. Costly cleanup activities by park crews to repair dune breaches and clear roadways after flood events would continue, as well as the Park's annual nourishment for re-establishment of beaches. Even with these efforts, park roadways would continue to flood during storm and seiche events and would sometimes be forced to close, preventing visitors and emergency vehicles from accessing numerous park facilities. 3.2 ALTERNATIVE 2: ROAD REALIGNMENT AND DUNE CONSTRUCTION PROJECT (PROPOSED ACTION) Near Beach #6, flooding impacts a portion of Old Lake Road that is an approximately 2,100-foot long and 12-foot wide bituminous road. The old section of roadway would be left in place and the barrier beach dune constructed over top of it. The newly relocated portion of Old Lake Road (from the dunes inland) would consist of a 10-foot aggregate shoulder, an 8-foot wide bituminous bicycle lane, a 12-foot wide bituminous road, and a 5-foot wide aggregate shoulder. At Beach #8, flooding impacts a portion of Old Lake Road that is an approximately 900-foot long and 12-foot wide bituminous road. As with the alignment proposed near Beach #6, the old sections of roadway would be left in place and a section of barrier beach dune constructed over top of the old road. The newly aligned portion of Old Lake Road (from the dunes inland) would consist of an 8-foot wide bituminous bicycle lane, a 12-foot wide bituminous road, and a 10-foot wide aggregate shoulder. Approximately 750 feet of existing overhead utility line would be relocated. Although the utilities are not affected by flooding, the utility poles need to be relocated to remain aligned with the road. Construction of new road alignment would require the removal of portions of a narrow strip of vegetation that is located between the existing road alignment, existing unimproved parking areas, and Peninsula Drive. Dunes would be constructed in both areas by staking snow barrier fencing along the beach. As sand accumulates behind the fences on the existing road surface, fencing would be placed successively higher on new dune surface to increase dune height. The end result would be approximately 10-foot high drift back beach dunes that would extend approximately 60 feet inland and function as barrier dunes for the protection of new road alignment from storm-related flooding. Native flora consisting of Virginia wild rye (Elymus virginicus), fox sedge (Carex vulpinoidea), redtop (Agrostis alba), willow (Salix sp.), and red dogwood (Cornus sericea/stolonifera) would be introduced to the new dunes. These native plantings would stabilize the dunes to better withstand future storm surges, consequently preventing washover to the interior of the Park. Grading, topsoil replacement, seeding, and mulching would be used to finish the project areas after construction of the road and dunes are completed. Upon completion of construction, the barrier beach dunes could be expected to undergo varying stages of succession over time. After project completion, flooding of Old Lake Road would not be expected to occur for the useful life of the project (50 years), and the only maintenance costs would be sand removal caused by wind-drifted sand over park roadways. 3.3 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED AND DISMISSED Other alternatives were considered but dismissed because they did not meet the purpose and need or were considered not feasible. 3.3.1 Alternative 3 - Old Lake Road Closure Under this alternative, the two sections of Old Lake Road subject to flooding would be closed to public recreational and emergency vehicle access. Other Park roads, such as Peninsula Drive, would handle all public recreational and emergency vehicle traffic. Because flooding in the two areas of Old Lake Drive also flows onto Peninsula Drive, flooding would continue under this alternative, potentially affecting access to Peninsula Drive. More importantly, since the Park receives approximately 4,000,000 visitors per year, re-directing traffic to other roads would not adequately maintain access to beaches for the public and emergency vehicles. This alternative did not meet the purpose and need for the project and was dismissed from further consideration. 3.3.2 Alternative 4 - Breakwater Construction Under this alternative, breakwaters would be constructed at the two flood-prone locations to dissipate wave energy during storms. Because the current configuration of breakwaters along the shore is a series of 55 segmented breakwaters that operate as a system, constructing breakwaters would include a lengthy design, engineering, and construction process, potentially involving evaluation of the entire existing breakwater system. Potential environmental consequences include impacts to waters of the U.S., water quality, coastal resources, geology and soils, threatened and endangered species, migratory birds, and historic/archaeological resources. This alternative was not considered to be feasible and was dismissed from further consideration. 4.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND IMPACTS This section describes the potential impacts of the Proposed Action Alternative and the No Action Alternative. Where potential impacts exist, conditions or mitigation measures to offset these impacts are detailed. A summary table is provided in Section 4.12. 4.1 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Underlying the relatively thin veneer (approximately 100 feet) of sand and other glacially derived sediments which make up Presque Isle State Park, lies almost 6,000-feet of sedimentary rock. The rocks consist of nearly horizontal layers of shale, limestone, dolostone (magnesium limestone), claystone, sandstone, and salt. The uppermost bedrock unit beneath Presque Isle State Park, the Devonian age Northeast Shale, is also exposed along the lake shoring in much of central and eastern Erie County. This rock is predominantly a gray silty shale, with thin layers of fine-grained sandstone and calcareous (limy) layers and lenses. Underlying the layers of sedimentary rock are older metamorphic rocks (DCNR 2009). A review of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 7.5-minute topographic map for the Erie North quadrangle indicates that the approximate elevation of the proposed project site ranges from 580 to 581 feet above mean sea level (USGS 1981). Local topography is relatively flat with a general slope to the west toward Lake Erie and east toward Presque Isle Bay. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) online Web Soil Survey, the proposed project site contains soils classified as Beach and River Wash; Beach Sand, Stabilized; Dune Sand; and Fresh Water Marsh (USDA/NRCS 2009) (see Figure 4 in Appendix A). Beach and River Wash is a miscellaneous land type that is made up of unassorted sand, gravel, and small fragments of flagstone. Beach Sand, Stabilized, is a miscellaneous land type consisting of deep, sandy beach material that is nearly level and moderately well-drained to poorly drained. Dune Sand is a miscellaneous land type consisting of deep, loose, droughty, windblown sands. These sands were sorted from the lacustrine (lake) materials by wind and were blown into the shape of dunes and then colonized by plants. Fresh Water Marsh is a miscellaneous land type that occurs in shallow lagoons on the bay side of Presque Isle State Park. The soil material consists of 6 to 12-inches of partly decomposed organic material that is underlain by deep lacustrine sand and gravel. The surface is covered by 1 to 3-feet of water; the water level fluctuates seasonally and is especially high following storms (DCNR 2009). The Farmland Protection Policy Act (FPPA) states that Federal agencies must 'minimize the extent to which Federal programs contribute to the unnecessary conversion of farmland to nonagricultural usesÉ" Soils within the project site are not classified as prime farmland soils and therefore, the FPPA does not apply (USDA/NRCS 2009). Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, no construction would occur and there would be no impacts to geology or soils. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, construction activities would not be deep enough to impact underlying geologic resources. Soils on the proposed project site would be disturbed to develop the property. The applicant would be required to submit Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit applications and obtain these permits prior to construction. Implementation of appropriate Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be required at the construction location. BMPs could include the installation of silt fences and the revegetation of disturbed soils to minimize the potential for erosion. Excavated soil and waste materials would be managed and disposed of in accordance with applicable local, State, and Federal regulations. If contaminated materials are discovered during the construction activities, the work would cease until the appropriate procedures and permits can be implemented. 4.2 WATER RESOURCES 4.2.1 Surface Water The Clean Water Act (CWA), as amended in 1977, established the basic framework for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the U.S. The project area is generally level except were beach barrier dunes have been established and where temporary piles of sand for storm protection have been stored. No permanent water bodies exist in the project area. However, Lake Erie is located nearby within 100 to 200 feet of the project area. The protected water use for Lake Erie, as listed in Title 25 of the Pennsylvania Code (PA Code), Chapter 93, ¤-93.9x, is CWF (Cold Water Fishes). This is defined by Chapter 93 as the maintenance or propagation, or both, of fish species including the family Salmonidae, and additional flora and fauna which are indigenous to a cold water habitat. During periodic storm events that overwash dunes in the area, flood waters flow along the existing Old Lake Road bed onto Peninsula Drive but do not connect hydrologically to any surface waters. Wetlands near the project area are addressed in Section 4.2.4 Waters of the U.S. Including Wetlands. Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, no construction would occur and there would be no impacts to surface water. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, minor short-term impacts to nearby surface waters (Lake Erie) may occur during the construction period due to soil erosion. To reduce potential impacts to surface water, the applicant would implement appropriate BMPs, such as installing silt fences and re-vegetating bare soils for the protection of Lake Erie. The applicant would also be required to obtain SWPPP and NPDES permits prior to construction if necessary. 4.2.2 Groundwater The water table at Presque Isle State Park is generally very shallow and has the same or slightly higher elevation as Lake Erie. The loose unconsolidated sands that comprise the Presque Isle peninsula are permeable and would easily allow for the movement of groundwater except that the level topography affects the ability of groundwater to flow. This high permeability also permits groundwater quality to change rapidly. Groundwater level fluctuation is tied to lake water levels, as the high permeability of sand and the hydrostatic pressure of the surrounding lake prevents the groundwater level from falling significantly lower than the lake (DCNR 2009). Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, no construction would occur and there would be no impacts to groundwater. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, construction activities such as clearing and grading would not reach a sufficient depth to impact groundwater. Dune construction would entail leaving the old road in place and building up sand over time; no grading or excavation would be required. Therefore, no impacts to groundwater are anticipated from the proposed project. 4.2.3 Floodplains Executive Order (EO) 11988 (Floodplain Management) requires Federal agencies to avoid direct or indirect support of development within the 100-year floodplain whenever there is a practicable alternative. FEMA uses Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) to identify the regulatory 100-year floodplain for the National Flood Insurance Program. Although the current FIRMs do not include the Presque Isle State Park, the preliminary Digital FIRM (DFIRM) includes the Park and, consistent with EO 11988, the DFIRM was used to determine the floodplain because it is considered the best and most current available information. The proposed project site is located in Other Areas: defined as Zone X (areas determined to be outside the 100-year and 500-year floodplains) or Zone D (areas in which flood hazards are undetermined, but possible) (Figure 2 in Appendix A; FEMA Date not Issued; Community Panel Number 42049C0065 D). Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, no construction would occur and there would be no impacts to the floodplain. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, no impacts to the floodplain are anticipated. The proposed project is located outside the 100-year and 500-year flood zones. 4.2.4 Waters of the U.S. Including Wetlands The USACE regulates the discharge of dredged or filled material into waters of the U.S., including wetlands, pursuant to Section 404 of the CWA. Additionally, EO 11990 (Protection of Wetlands) requires Federal agencies to avoid, to the extent possible, adverse impact to wetlands. Waters of the U.S. The proposed action would take place within 100 to 200 feet of Lake Erie. Lake Erie is considered waters of the U.S. but is also under the jurisdiction of the State of Pennsylvania within 500 feet of the low-water mark of the peninsula of Presque Isle (17 PA Code ¤-11.203.-State park waters). Lake Erie is not within the project area's zone of disturbance and would be avoided throughout the implementation of the project. Wetlands Initial evaluation of the National Wetlands Inventory mapping (USFWS 2009) indicates the potential presence of wetlands in proximity to the proposed realignment (Figure 3 in Appendix A). The Cowardin classifications (Cowardin 1979) for wetlands mapped in the area are Palustrine Forested and Palustrine Scrub Shrub. A wetland delineation was performed by the Park Biologist, Marcus Snyder, on October 14, 2009, to identify wetland resources located in or near the project area. The delineation was performed in accordance with the Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Wetlands (Federal Interagency Committee for Wetland Delineation 1989) using the three parameter approach, including the presence of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and hydrologic indicators. Two wetland areas near the project area boundary were identified and subsequently delineated. Wetland #1: Wetland #1 is located adjacent to the project site. Although it is not located within the project site, it was flagged so that it could be avoided during construction. Wetland #1 has soils with a Munsell color of 10YR 7/1 with 7.5YR 5/6 mottles. Vegetation is dominated by common reed (Phragmites australis). A few trees such as cottonwood (Populus deltoides), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), and European alder (Alnus glutinosa) are also scattered around its perimeter. This area is low-lying and most likely collects stormwater runoff from adjacent roads and woodlots. A significant amount of vegetation and undecayed plant material is present on the ground surface. Wetland #1 is estimated to be between 0.1 and 0.2 acre in size. Wetland #2: Wetland #2 is located near the project site. This is a low-lying area near the power line where the new road would be constructed. Soils in the wetland area are sandy and have iron oxide streaks within 12 inches of the soil surface. Vegetation consists of red maple (Acer rubrum), swamp dewberry (Rubus hispidus), Tartarian honeysuckle (Lonicera tartarica), blue-stemmed goldenrod (Solidago caesia) and blackberry bushes (Rubus allegheniensis). The red maples exhibit heavily buttressed roots, which is a sign of wetland plant adaptations. Wetland #2 is estimated to be approximately 0.01 acre. In a letter dated August 12, 2010, the USACE, Pittsburgh District has verified the boundaries of two jurisdictional wetlands in the project study area (Appendix B). Based on the preliminary site plans, these two wetland areas would be avoided during the design and construction phases (Appendix D). Coastal Resources Coastal Zone Management Act The proposed project site is located within the Pennsylvania Coastal Zone. The Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) enables coastal States, including Pennsylvania, to designate State coastal zone boundaries and develop coastal management programs to improve protection of sensitive shoreline resources and guide sustainable use of coastal areas. Since the proposed project involves a grant from FEMA, Federal consistency review is required under 15 CFR Part 930, Subpart F - Consistency for Federal Assistance to State and Local Governments. Federal consistency review and conditional concurrence were provided on February 27, 2008, by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) (Appendix B). Concurrence was provided under the condition that project work would not commence until a NPDES Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Construction Activities has been granted or waived by the Erie County Conservation District. Coastal Barrier Resources Act The Great Lakes are included in the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA) (first included in Reauthorization of the Act in 1990). However, there are no CBRA zones in Pennsylvania according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) coastal barrier resources maps accessed on October 6, 2009. Furthermore, Presque Isle does not meet the definition of undeveloped coastal barrier with few manmade structures. Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, no construction would occur and there would be no impacts to waters of the U.S., wetlands, or coastal resources. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, no impacts to waters of the U.S., wetlands, or coastal resources are anticipated. 4.3 TRANSPORTATION The proposed project site is located within the Presque Isle State Park. The Park is accessible by State Route 832, which becomes Peninsula Drive within the Park. Peninsula Drive transverses the entire length of the Park. Access to the project site is provided by Old Lake Road which connects to Peninsula Drive. Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, no construction would occur and the project site would continue to be closed to transportation during flood events. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, there would be a minor temporary increase in the volume of construction traffic on roads in the immediate vicinity of the proposed project site that could potentially result in a slower traffic flow during the construction phase. To mitigate potential delays, construction vehicles and equipment would be stored onsite during project construction and appropriate signage would be posted on affected roadways. Impacts to transportation in the project area would be temporary and minor during the construction phase of the project. Permanent impacts to transportation are beneficial because the long-term effect of the project is to remove limitations on public beach and emergency vehicle access caused by road flooding. 4.4 ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE EO 12898 (Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations) mandates that Federal agencies identify and address, as appropriate, disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects of their programs, policies, and activities on minority and low-income populations. Although Presque Isle State Park is State property that is not within city limits, it is closely associated with the City of Erie. The City of Erie has a population of 102,036 individuals. According to the 2000 U.S. Census, in 1999 the median household income reported in the City of Erie was $28,387, with 18.8 percent of individuals living below the poverty level. The 2007 median household income reported in all of Erie County was $33,560, with 17.6 percent of individuals living below the poverty level. The median household income in the State of Pennsylvania was $42,365, with 14.4 percent of individuals living below the poverty level (USCB 2000). Minorities represented 19.4 percent, 9.0 percent, and 14.6 percent, respectively, of the City of Erie, Erie County, and the State of Pennsylvania populations. The following table shows the specific racial composition of the City of Erie, Erie County, and the State of Pennsylvania populations. Ethnicity City of Erie Erie County State of Pennsylvania White 80.6 % 91.0 % 85.4 % Black or African American 14.2 % 6.7 % 10.8 % American Indian or Native Alaskan 0.2 % 0.2 % 0.2 % Asian 0.7 % 0.8 % 2.4 % Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander < 0.1% < 0.1% < 0.1% Source: USCB 2000 Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, all park visitors would continue to be denied access to the public beaches and associated public facilities during road closures due to flooding. There would be no disproportionately high or adverse impact on minority or low-income portions of the population - all populations would continue to be affected. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction The Proposed Action Alternative would provide a road that is not susceptible to flooding and that would be accessible and beneficial to all members of the community. There would be no disproportionately high or adverse impact on minority or low-income portions of the population - all populations would benefit from the realigned road and protective dunes. 4.5 AIR QUALITY The Clean Air Act (CAA) requires that States adopt ambient air quality standards. The standards have been established in order to protect the public from potentially harmful amounts of pollutants. Under the CAA, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) establishes primary and secondary air quality standards. Primary air quality standards protect the public health, including the health of "sensitive populations, such as people with asthma, children, and older adults." Secondary air quality standards protect public welfare by promoting ecosystems health, and preventing decreased visibility and damage to crops and buildings. EPA has set National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for the following six criteria pollutants: ozone (O3), particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and lead (Pb). According to EPA's greenbook for non-attainment, Erie County and adjacent counties are in attainment, meaning no criteria air pollutants exceed the NAAQS. Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative The No Action alternative would have no effect on air quality because no construction would occur. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction The proposed project is not expected to contribute emissions that would exceed the established NAAQS. Any effects to air quality from the operation of diesel engines or other construction equipment are expected to be localized and of short-duration. Construction contractors would be required to implement air quality protection measures such as watering down construction areas when necessary, reducing fuel-burning equipment running times, and properly maintaining engines during construction of the project. 4.6 NOISE Noise is generally defined as unwanted sound. Sound is most commonly measured in decibels (dB) on the A-weighted scale, which is the scale most similar to the range of sounds that the human ear can hear. The Day-Night Average Sound Level (DNL) is an average measure of sound. The DNL descriptor is accepted by Federal agencies as a standard for estimating sound impacts and establishing guidelines for compatible land uses. EPA guidelines, and those of many other Federal agencies, state that outdoor sound levels in excess of 55 dB DNL are "normally unacceptable" for sensitive receptors (e.g., noise-sensitive land uses) such as residences, schools, or hospitals. The project site, as part of a State Park, is not located near any sensitive receptors. Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative The No Action alternative would not result in noise impacts because no construction would occur. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Sensitive receptors would not be affected as there are none located in proximity to the project area. Noise generated by the operation of equipment during the construction phase of the proposed project is expected to be temporary and minor. Construction would take place during normal business hours and equipment would meet all local, State, and Federal noise regulations. 4.7 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES The proposed project area includes eroded dune, scrub-shrub community, sub-climax forest, unimproved (dirt) parking areas, existing road/trail, and right-of-way for overhead power lines. Vegetated areas are cross-cut or fragmented by parking lots for beach access and Old Lake Road and trail. 4.7.1 Vegetation Vegetation in the project area, located in narrow strips between roads and parking areas, is of sub-climax forest type including eastern cottonwood, red maple, and red osier dogwood (Cornus stolonifera). Understory vegetation typically includes Tartarian honeysuckle, riverbank grape (Vitus riparia), and goldenrod (Solidago spp.). Dune habitat in the project area primarily consists of eroded dune and narrow beach areas subject to overwash and lake surge during storm events. Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no impacts to vegetation because no construction would occur. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, approximately 1 acre of vegetation, including trees, would be cleared and graded for construction of the new road alignment. Jim Bissell, the Curator of Botany for the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, assessed the project area for rare plants on February 7, 2008, and concluded in a letter dated February 22, 2008, that the project would not likely impact any habitats that support rare plants at Presque Isle State Park (Appendix B) Mr. Bissell noted that the establishment of new dune habitat as proposed would allow beach plants such as purple sand grass (Triplasis purpurea), Oake's evening primrose (Oenothera oakesiana), coastal little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium var. littorale), and sea rocket (Cakile edentula) to become established. In a letter dated November 2, 2009, the DCNR stated that no impacts to rare plants were anticipated based on Mr. Bissell's assessment (Appendix B). In the same letter, DCNR suggested voluntary steps to prevent the spread of invasive species, including minimizing soil/vegetation disturbance, cleaning construction equipment before bringing it onsite, and using seed mixes free of weeds or other invasive species. 4.7.2 Aquatic Habitat There is no aquatic habitat in the immediate project area, although nearby Lake Erie potentially contains habitat for species of concern, such as bowfin (Amia calva), cylindrical papershell (Anodontoides ferussacianus), warmouth (Lepomis gulosus), fragile papershell (Leptodea fragilis), and pink heelsplitter (Potamilus alatus) (based on a Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory [PNDI] search performed on October 19, 2009). Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no impacts to aquatic habitat because no construction would occur. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action, no impacts to aquatic habitats are anticipated. In a letter dated December 11, 2009, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stated that no adverse impacts to aquatic species of special concern would be expected from the proposed project (Appendix B). Additionally, no Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) is within the project area or in Lake Erie in proximity to the project (based on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration [NOAA] Essential Fish Habitat mapper accessed on October 20, 2009). 4.7.3 Migratory Bird Treaty Act Presque Isle State Park is located within the Atlantic Flyway and may provide resting, feeding, and breeding grounds for migrant birds. However, the project site itself does not contain suitable habitat as it is a disturbed area characterized by existing roadway, dirt lots, fragments of vegetation, and eroded dunes. Higher quality habitat exists within Presque Isle State Park in the extensive wetland areas located on the Presque Isle Bay side of the peninsula. According to records derived from a PNDI search on October 19, 2009, four State-listed bird species may occur in the area. Two are State-listed endangered species: the black tern (Chlidonias niger) and least bittern (Ixobrychus exilus), and two are State-listed special concern species: the American coot (Fulica americana) and the marsh wren (Cistothorus palustris). Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no impacts to migratory birds because no construction would occur. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, no impacts to migratory bird species are anticipated. In a letter dated January 5, 2010, the Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) stated that no impacts to birds or mammals under the PGC's jurisdiction are anticipated (Appendix B). 4.7.4 Threatened/Endangered Species and Critical Habitat The project area does not contain suitable habitat for threatened and endangered species or designated critical habitat for any federally protected species. In a letter dated November 5, 2009, the USFWS Pennsylvania Field Office provided concurrence that no impacts to federally listed or proposed species are anticipated (Appendix B). Designated Critical Habitat for the Great Lakes breeding population of piping plover (Charadrius melodus), a federally listed endangered species, has been established within the eastern portion of the Park from the Presque Isle Lighthouse to the southeast side of Gull Point. Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no impacts to federally protected species because no construction would occur. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, no impacts to federally protected species, their suitable habitat, or designated critical habitat are anticipated. No impacts to the piping plover are anticipated as the project area is in the western portion of the Park where there is no suitable habitat for the piping plover. Vegetation to be cleared does not include suitable habitat for the piping plover. The eastern portion of the Park, where critical habitat is designated and monitored, will not be impacted by project activities. 4.8 CULTURAL RESOURCES Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA), as amended, requires Federal agencies to take into account the effect that an undertaking would have on historic properties. Historic properties are those included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) and may include archaeological sites, buildings, structures, sites, objects, and districts. In accordance with the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation regulations pertaining to the protection of historic properties (36 CFR 800.4), Federal agencies are required to identify and evaluate historic resources for NRHP eligibility and assess the effects the undertaking would have on historic properties. On November 30, 2009, FEMA Region III staff met with the Pennsylvania Bureau for Historic Preservation (BHP, State Historic Preservation Office) to discuss this project in order to initiate consultation pursuant to Section 106 of the NHPA. During that meeting, BHP staff indicated that a geomorphological study of the proposed project Area of Potential Effects was warranted to determine if an intensive archaeological survey was necessary. As a result, FEMA commissioned a geomorphological study in 2010 that included research and field investigations. Geological/geomorphological field investigations were initiated on April 18, 2010, and included a pedestrian reconnaissance of the project area, as well as the excavation and inspection of 16 deep backhoe trench soundings. In addition to the backhoe trench excavations, ground-penetrating radar transects were completed within the project area. The objectives of the geological/geomorphological study were to investigate the geology of the project area and depositional processes responsible for emplacement of the soil/sediment packages, determine the age of the soils/sediments within the study area, and determine the depths to which Phase I testing should extend, if warranted, to ensure the recovery of any and all potentially significant cultural resources. Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative The No Action Alternative would have no effect on cultural resources in the area because no construction would occur. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, FEMA has determined that no adverse effects to cultural resources would occur. Given the recent age of the sands encountered in the project area, as well as their emplacement under high-energy conditions during recent to historic times, there is no potential for the occurrence of potentially significant in situ historic or prehistoric cultural resources. In a letter dated July 20, 2010, the BHP, State Historic Preservation Office indicated that no further archaeological work is necessary for this project (Appendix B). Should any historic or archaeological materials be discovered during construction, all construction work on the site would be halted immediately and Presque Isle Park would contact BHP and FEMA for further guidance. FEMA will consult with BHP on any discoveries. 4.9 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Hazardous substances are defined as any solid, liquid, contained gaseous or semisolid waste, or any combination of wastes that pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health and the environment. Hazardous substances are primarily generated by industry, hospitals, research facilities, and the government. Improper management and disposal of hazardous substances can lead to pollution of groundwater or other drinking water supplies, and the contamination of surface water and soil. The primary Federal regulations for the management and disposal of hazardous substances are the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). An Internet land use search was completed for the proposed project site (PADEP 2009). Based on the results of this Internet search, several active land recycling cleanup facilities were identified at the northern section of the Park. Several active well waste land recycling cleanup operations and two former gas wells are also located near the project site. All sites are listed as in compliance with PADEP. The EPA Web site (EPA 2009) lists a park well on the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information System (CERCLIS) database (CERCLIS EPA ID # PAD980508865). This well is located approximately ˝ mile away from the project area, at Beach #7, in the picnic area on the lakeside of the Waterworks Park that was once located in the Presque Isle State Park. It was drilled by the City of Erie to a depth of 3,572 feet and was used to run machinery at the Waterworks. This well was abandoned in the 1920s. In the 1970s, hydrogen sulfide gas began to emanate from the well. The hydrogen sulfide gas was determined to be a result of the Hammermill Paper Company injecting 90,000,000 gallons of wood pulp, 4 miles east of the Beach #7 well, into an underground formation known as the Bass Island formation. The Beach-#7 well was shut off and plugged in April-15, 1980, to 900-feet below the surface. In September 1983, the Beach-#7 well was placed on EPA's National Priorities List (NPL). The NPL consists of hazardous sites across the country where cleanup needs are so serious as to warrant designation as a Superfund site. In 1992, EPA delisted the well from the NPL. In 2002, the well was capped and all aboveground piping was removed. On September 30, 2006, this site was deleted from the Final NPL. A section of the Multi-Purpose Trail extension currently occupies the site of the well. The proposed project site is not located within any land-use types with potential for generating hazardous substances that would pose a contamination threat to the project site. No hazardous substances have been identified in the project area and the proposed work itself is not expected to generate any hazardous substances. Therefore, no further background research is recommended. Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, no construction would occur and there would be no impacts from hazardous materials or waste. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, no hazardous materials or waste impacts are anticipated. Any hazardous materials discovered, generated, or used during construction would be handled and disposed of in accordance with applicable local, State, and Federal regulations. 4.10 SAFETY Safety and security issues considered in this EA include the health and safety of the public-at-large that uses the Park, park personnel working in the Park, and the protection of personnel involved in activities related to the proposed construction of the road realignment and barrier beach dune. Construction activities could present safety risks to those performing the activities as well as the public-at-large. To minimize risks to safety and human health, all construction activities would be performed using qualified personnel trained in the proper use of the appropriate equipment, including all appropriate safety precautions. Additionally, all activities would be conducted in a safe manner in accordance with the standards specified in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. The appropriate signage and barriers should be in place prior to construction activities to alert pedestrians and motorists of project activities. Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, the safety and security of park users and construction personnel would not be affected over the short-term by activities related to road realignment, utility realignment, and dune construction. However, access for emergency vehicles during flooding events would continue to be an ongoing long-term safety concern for park users and park personnel. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, short-term safety risks to park users, park personnel, and construction personnel would be present during construction. Protective measures to be implemented during project construction would minimize these risks. All construction activities would be performed using qualified personnel and in accordance with the standards specified in OSHA regulations; appropriate signage and barriers should be in place prior to construction activities to alert pedestrians and motorists of project activities. Safety would be improved in the long-term under this alternative by removing flood-related limitations on emergency vehicle access. There would be no disproportionate health and safety risks to children. 4.11 SOCIOECONOMIC RESOURCES The proposed project site is located north of the City of Erie and is bounded by Lake Erie to the west and by Presque Isle Bay to the east. The proposed project site is located within census tract 106 of Erie County. The total population, as measured by the 2000 U.S. Census, was 1,534, with 57.7 percent of citizens over the age of 16 participating in the work force. Leading employment sectors were management, professional, and related occupations (45.5 percent); sales and office occupations (21.5 percent); production, transportation, and material moving occupations (15.8 percent); and service occupations (13.1 percent). Leading industries include manufacturing (28.1 percent); educational, health, and social services (23.5 percent); and retail trade (13.0 percent). Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, no impacts to socioeconomic resources would occur. Alternative 2 - Road Realignment and Dune Construction Under the Proposed Action Alternative, impacts to socioeconomic resources would be minimal. No permanent employment positions would be created or lost; temporary jobs would be created during the construction of the new road. Therefore, no adverse socioeconomic impacts are anticipated. 4.12 SUMMARY The following table summarizes the potential impacts of the Proposed Action Alternative and conditions or mitigation measures to offset those impacts. Affected Environment: Geology and Soils Impacts: No impacts to underlying geology are anticipated. Mitigation: Soils on the project site will be disturbed on the surface by grading during construction. A SWPPP and a NPDES permit must be obtained prior to construction. Implementation of appropriate BMPs would be required at the construction location, including the installation of silt fences and the revegetation of soils. Excavated soil and waste materials would be managed and disposed of in accordance with applicable local, State, and Federal regulations. If contaminated materials are discovered during the construction activities, the work would cease until the appropriate procedures and permits can be implemented. Affected Environment: Surface Water Impacts: No impacts to surface water are anticipated. Mitigation: Appropriate BMPs, such as installing silt fences and revegetating bare soils, would minimize runoff; a SWPPP and a NPDES permit must be obtained prior to construction if necessary. Affected Environment: Groundwater Impacts: No impacts to groundwater are anticipated. Mitigation: None Affected Environment: Floodplains Impacts: No impacts to the floodplain are anticipated. Mitigation: None Affected Environment: Waters of the U.S. including Wetlands Impacts: No impacts to wetlands, waters of the U.S., or coastal resources are anticipated. Mitigation: None Affected Environment: Transportation Impacts: Short-term, minor temporary increase in the volume of construction traffic on roads. Positive impacts to transportation are anticipated because the project would remove limitations on public beach and emergency vehicle access. Mitigation: Construction vehicles and equipment would be stored onsite during project construction and appropriate signage would be posted on affected roadways. Affected Environment: Environmental Justice Impacts: All populations would benefit from the Proposed Action. Mitigation: None Affected Environment: Air Quality Impacts: Short-term impacts to air quality would occur during the construction period. Mitigation: Construction contractors would be required to water down construction areas when necessary; fuel-burning equipment running times would be kept to a minimum; engines would be properly maintained. Affected Environment: Noise Impacts: Short-term impacts to noise levels would occur at the proposed project site during the construction period. Mitigation: Construction would take place during normal business hours and equipment would meet all local, State, and Federal noise regulations. Affected Environment: Biological Resources/ Threatened and Endangered Species Impacts: Approximately 1 acre of disturbed forest area would be impacted when cleared for the proposed project site. No impacts to other biological resources or any federally protected species or habitat are anticipated. Mitigation: None Affected Environment: Cultural Resources Impacts: None Mitigation: In the event that archaeological deposits, including any Native American pottery, stone tools, or human remains are uncovered, the project would be halted. The applicant would stop all work immediately in the vicinity of the discovery and take reasonable measures to avoid or minimize harm to the finds. All archaeological findings would be secured and access to the sensitive area restricted. The applicant would inform FEMA immediately and FEMA would consult with the State Historic Preservation Office or Tribal Historic Preservation Office and Tribes. Work in sensitive areas would not resume until consultation is completed and appropriate measures are taken to ensure that the project is in compliance with the NHPA. Affected Environment: Hazardous Materials Impacts: No hazardous materials or waste impacts are anticipated. Mitigation: Any hazardous materials discovered, generated, or used during construction would be disposed of and handled in accordance with applicable local, State, and Federal regulations. Affected Environment: Safety Impacts: There is potential for temporary minor impacts to the safety of park users and construction personnel during construction activities. Positive impacts to public safety are anticipated, since emergency vehicles would have unrestricted access via the new road alignment. Mitigation: All construction activities would be performed using qualified personnel and in accordance with the standards specified in OSHA regulations; appropriate signage and barriers would be in place prior to construction activities to alert pedestrians and motorists of project activities. Affected Environment: Socioeconomic Resources Impacts: No adverse socioeconomic impacts are anticipated. Mitigation: None 5.0 CUMULATIVE IMPACTS According to CEQ regulations, cumulative impacts represent the "impact on the environment that results from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, regardless of what agency (Federal or non-Federal) or person undertakes such other actions. Cumulative impacts can result from individually minor but collectively significant actions taking place over a period of time" (40 CFR 1508.7). In accordance with NEPA and to the extent reasonable and practical, this EA considers the combined effect of the Proposed Action Alternative and other actions occurring or proposed in the vicinity of the proposed project site. The proposed project is a road realignment and dune construction directly adjacent to the existing road. The project is contained entirely within the Presque Isle State Park in Erie, Pennsylvania. The proposed project will bisect a narrow strip of disturbed forest surrounded by park infrastructure such as public and park employee buildings, parking lots, public beaches, and park access roads. The only other large-scale project ongoing within the Park is a beach re-nourishment project that is being conducted jointly between the USACE and the State of Pennsylvania. Since 1955, sand has been continuously added to the beach face of Presque Isle State Park to compensate for the loss of sand from beach erosion (DCNR 2009). The proposed project is not anticipated to result in significant cumulative impacts when considered in combination with the ongoing beach re-nourishment project. 6.0 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT FEMA is the lead Federal agency for conducting the NEPA compliance process for the Road Re-Alignment and Dune Construction Project in Presque Isle State Park, Erie County, Pennsylvania. The lead agency's goal is to expedite the preparation and review of NEPA documents and to be responsive to the needs of the community and the purpose and need of the proposed action while meeting the intent of NEPA and complying with all NEPA provisions. The public was notified of the availability of the Draft EA through publication of a public notice in a local newspaper and provided access to the EA at the Presque Isle State Park Tom Ridge Center located at 301 Peninsula Drive (Route 832), Suite 1 in Erie, Pennsylvania 16505-2042. The public notice was published on August 20, 2010, in the Erie Times News. The EA document was available for public review at the Tom Ridge Center beginning on August 20, 2010. The EA was also available for public review on the FEMA website (http://www.fema.gov/plan/ehp/envdocuments/ea-region3.shtm) and Presque Isle State Park website (http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/presqueisle.aspx). FEMA conducted a 21-day public comment period commencing on the initial publication date of the public notice and ending on Friday, September 10, 2010 at 5:00 PM. 7.0 AGENCY COORDINATION The following agencies and organizations were contacted by letter requesting project review during the preparation of this EA. Responses received to date are included in Appendix B. - USFWS, Endangered Species Section, State College, PA - USACE, Great Lakes and Ohio River Division, Pittsburgh District, Pittsburgh, PA - PADEP, Pennsylvania Coastal Resources Management (CRM) Program, Harrisburg, PA - Bissell, James, Curator of Botany, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Cleveland, OH - DCNR, Bureau of Forestry, Ecological Services Section, Harrisburg, PA - Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Division of Environmental Services, Bellefonte, PA - PGC, Bureau of Wildlife Habitat Management, Division of Environmental Planning and Habitat Protection, Harrisburg, PA - Snyder, Marcus, State Park Biologist, Presque Isle State Park, Presque Isle, PA In accordance with applicable local, State, and Federal regulations, the applicant would be responsible for acquiring any necessary permits prior to commencing construction at the proposed project site. 8.0 CONCLUSIONS No adverse impacts to geology, groundwater, floodplains, waters of the U.S., wetlands, coastal resources, environmental justice, aquatic habitat, migratory birds, threatened and endangered species, cultural resources, hazardous materials, or socioeconomic resources are anticipated with the Proposed Action Alternative. Positive impacts to transportation, environmental justice, and safety are expected. Long-term, minor impacts to biological resources include the clearing of less than an acre of disturbed forest from a portion of the proposed project site. During the construction period, short-term impacts to soils, downstream surface water, transportation, air quality, and noise are anticipated. 9.0 REFERENCES Cowardin, L.M.; Golet, F.C.; LaRoe, E. T.; 1979. Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. United States Fish and Wildlife Service Biological Report: FWS/OBS-79/31, December 1979. Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Bureau of State Parks. 2009. Resource Management Plan - Presque Isle State Park. May 2009. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA date not issued. Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Community Panel Number 42049C0065 D. http://www.msc.fema.gov. Accessed December 18, 2009. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). 2009. Essential Fish Habitat Mapper. http://sharpfin.nmfs.noaa.gov/website/EFH_Mapper/map.aspx. Accessed October 20, 2009. Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP). 2009. emap PA http://www.emappa.dep.state.pa.us/emappa/viewer.htm. Last updated on April 10, 2009. Accessed December 19, 2009. U.S. Census Bureau (USCB). 2000. American Fact Finder, Pennsylvania. http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/42000.html. Last revised November 17, 2009. Accessed December 18, 2009. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). 2009. Web Soil Survey. http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/. Last modified November 11, 2009. Accessed December 18, 2009. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 2009. EnviroMapper. http://www.epa.gov/emefdata/em4ef.home. Access December 20, 2009. EPA. 2009. The Greenbook Non Attainment Areas For Criteria Pollutants, http://www.epa.gov/air/oaqps/greenbook/. Last modified November 17, 2009. Accessed December 18, 2009. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). 2009. Birds Protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/RegulationsPolicies/mbta/mbtintro.html. Last updated June 1, 2009. Accessed October 7, 2009. USFWS. National Wetland Inventory Web site. 2009. U.S. Department of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C. http://www.fws.gov/wetlands. Accessed October 6, 2009. U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). 1981. Erie Pennsylvania, Erie North 7.5-minute Quadrangle. 1:24,000 series. 10.0 LIST OF PREPARERS Catharine McManus Regional Environmental Officer, Region III Federal Emergency Management Agency Philadelphia, PA Sharon Farris Graduate Environmental Scientist URS Group, Inc. Fort Washington, PA Alan Hermely Project Manager URS Group, Inc. Fort Washington, PA Appendix A - Figures Figure 1 - This figure depicts the project study area defined on a topographic map Figure 2 - This figure depicts the floodplain map that covers the project study area Figure 3 - This figure depicts the national wetland inventory map that covers the project study area Figure 4 - This figure depicts the soil map that covers the project study area Appendix B - Agency Coordination (Includes agency coordination letters from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Pennsylvania Game Commission, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the State Historic Preservation Office) Appendix C - Photograph Log Includes 4 photos: Photo 1 - View west toward existing road where 900 feet of realignment and dune construction is proposed. The bulldozed sand berm, as seen to the north, shows where breaching of the dune has occurred. Photo 2 - View to the north of the area where the 900-foot section of road realignment will tie into the existing alignment. Some vegetation removal may be required in the narrow forested corridor visible to the right of the road. Photo 3 - View to the west of the existing road and forested area where a 2,100-foot section of road realignment and dune creation is proposed. A temporary sand berm was put in place in the Summer of 2009 by the park as a stop gap measure against further flooding. Photo 4 - View looking west toward wood line of proposed road alignment and existing overhead utility right-of-way.