florida department of transportation harborview road …...oct 14, 2019 · project manager: steven...
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ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION TYPE 2 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
Florida Department of Transportation
HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75
District: FDOT District 1
County: Charlotte County
ETDM Number: 5351
Financial Management Number: 434965-1-21-01
Federal-Aid Project Number: D117-053-B
Project Manager: Steven Anthony Andrews
The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable federalenvironmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by the Florida Department of
Transportation (FDOT) pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding datedDecember 14, 2016 and executed by the Federal Highway Administration and FDOT. Submitted
pursuant 49 U.S.C. 303.
This action has been determined to be a Categorical Exclusion which meets the definition containedin 40 CFR 1508.4, and, based on past experience with similar actions and this analysis, does not
involve significant environmental impacts. Signature below constitutes Location and Design ConceptAcceptance:
October 14, 2019
Director of the Office of Environmental ManagementFlorida Department of Transportation
This document was prepared in accordance with the FDOT PD&E Manual.
This project has been developed without regard to race, color or national origin, age, sex, religion,disability or family status (Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended).
On 12/06/2017 the State of Florida determined that this project is consistent with the Florida Coastal
Zone Management Program.
For additional information, contact:
Steven AndrewsPrjoect Manager
Florida Department of Transportation801 North Broadway Avenue
Bartow, Florida 33830863-519-2270
Prime Consulting Firm:AIM
Consulting Project Manager:Jeffrey Jacquin, P.E.
Table of Contents
1. Project Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1 Project Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.2 Purpose and Need . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.3 Planning Consistency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2. Environmental Analysis Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3. Social and Economic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3.1 Social . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3.2 Economic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.3 Land Use Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.4 Mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.5 Aesthetic Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.6 Relocation Potential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.7 Farmland Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4. Cultural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.1 Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
4.2 Section 4(f) of the USDOT Act of 1966, as amended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.3 Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
4.4 Other Protected Public Lands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
5. Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5.1 Protected Species and Habitat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5.2 Wetlands and Other Surface Waters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5.3 Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5.4 Floodplains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5.5 Sole Source Aquifer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5.6 Water Quality and Stormwater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5.7 Aquatic Preserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.8 Outstanding Florida Waters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.9 Wild and Scenic Rivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.10 Coastal Barrier Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
6. Physical Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
6.1 Highway Traffic Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
6.2 Air Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
6.3 Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
6.4 Utilities and Railroads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
6.5 Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
7. Engineering Analysis Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
8. Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
9. Public Involvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
10. Project Commitments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
11. Technical Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Attachments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
1. 1. Project Information
1. Project Information1.1. 1.1 Project Description
1.1 Project Description
Harborview Road (County Road [CR] 776) is an east-west minor arterial roadway in the Charlotte Harbor area of Charlotte
County that connects US 41 to I-75. Harborview Road is a two-lane undivided facility with 12-foot lanes (one in each
direction) and no paved shoulders. Stormwater runoff is collected in roadside swales. The posted speed limit within the
project limits is primarily 45 mph, decreasing to 35 mph through three of the horizontal curves within the project limits. In
general, existing right-of-way (ROW) along the project corridor is 80 feet. The project corridor lacks pedestrian, bicycle,
and transit facilities with the exception of small sidewalk segments extending from Melbourne Street to just east of Roll's
Landing Charlotte Harbor Condominium and four school bus stops. A full discussion of the existing roadway conditions
can be found in Section 2.0 of the Preliminary Engineering Report (PER) (May 2019), prepared under separate cover.
The proposed action involves widening Harborview Road from the existing two-lane undivided roadway to a four-lane
divided roadway from Melbourne Street to west of I-75, a distance of 2.3 miles, as shown in Figure 1, the Project Location
Map. This improvement is necessary to provide additional capacity to accommodate future travel demand generated by
projected population and economic growth in Port Charlotte and Charlotte County. The proposed improvement will
improve access from US 41 and commercial and residential areas in Port Charlotte to I-75.
This project was screened through the Efficient Transportation Decision Making (ETDM) process as ETDM Number 5351.
The results were published in the Planning Screen Summary Report on August 28, 2017, with comments from the
Environmental Technical Advisory Team (ETAT). The ETAT evaluated the project's effects on various natural, physical
and social resources. The Final Programming Screen Summary Report was published on September 20, 2017.
Based on engineering and environmental factors, and comments received from the public, FDOT recommends the
Optimized Widening Alternative to meet the documented purpose and need for this project. The Preferred Alternative
results in the development of a four-lane divided roadway with 11-foot travel lanes, curb and gutter along the inside and
outside edges of pavement, and a 30-foot grassed median. Six-foot sidewalks and seven-foot buffered bicycle lanes will
accommodate pedestrian and bicycle traffic along the corridor. The widening alignment shifts both north and south of the
existing roadway to minimize residential relocations. A total of 114 feet of ROW width is needed to accommodate the
proposed improvements, which results in an estimated 11.0 acres of ROW to be acquired for roadway improvements and
9.5 acres to be acquired for stormwater management and historic storage compensation facilities. The Preferred
Alternative typical section is shown in Figure 2. The proposed design speed for this urban typical section is 45 mph.
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Figure 1 Project Location Map
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1.2. 1.2 Purpose and Need
1.2 Purpose and Need
The purpose of the project is to correct current substandard roadway design elements and improve an existing traffic
bottleneck along Harborview Road (CR 776) from Melbourne Street to west of I-75 in central Charlotte County [also
referred to as "Mid Charlotte County"]. The need for the project is based on the following primary and secondary criteria:
PRIMARY CRITERIA
ROADWAY DEFICIENCIES: Address Substandard Roadway Design Elements
Figure 2 Recommended Typical Section
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For the majority of the project segment, Harborview Road (CR 776) is a two-lane, undivided facility with two twelve-foot
travel lanes, unpaved shoulders, and an open drainage system. For years, the Charlotte County Maintenance Department
has placed gravel along both sides of the roadway pavement to stabilize each shoulder. There are no pedestrian facilities
along the roadway within the project limits except for sidewalks from Melbourne Street to just east of Roll's Landing
Charlotte Harbor Condominium. There are no Charlotte County Transit bus stops along the corridor; however, four
designated school bus stops are present [two located in each direction]. In addition, there are four horizontal curves within
the project limits with radii ranging from 588 feet to 2,864 feet; three of these curves do not meet county standards.
The proposed project will be designed to meet current county roadway standards.
AREA WIDE NETWORK/SYSTEM LINKAGE: Improve Transportation Network Connectivity
The project segment of Harborview Road (CR 776) is currently a two-lane facility which connects to a five-lane urban
typical section to the west and a four-lane divided rural typical section to the east creating a traffic bottleneck. The project
is intended to enhance transportation network connectivity by:
Providing a viable alternate route to parallel area east-west arterials [US 17, SR 776/CR 771, and a portion of US 41];Maintaining a critical link between a principal arterial [US 41] and a Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) facility [I-75];andCreating a multi-modal corridor by including pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
SECONDARY CRITERIA
CAPACITY/TRANSPORTATION DEMAND: Improve Operational Conditions
The existing roadway is operationally deficient and is not able to accommodate the multiple transportation modes that
presently use the corridor. Conditions along the roadway are anticipated to be exacerbated if no improvements occur as
the roadway lacks the operational capacity to accommodate future travel demand. Multimodal activity is expected to
increase along the corridor as a result of projected growth in the area.
According to the 2050 Framework of Smart Charlotte 2050 [Charlotte County's comprehensive plan], the Harborview
Road (CR 776) corridor is a growing activity center of the county as it is surrounded by and connects several areas
targeted for redevelopment and new development [including the Charlotte County Community Redevelopment Area and a
number of Planned Unit Developments]. The Charlotte County-Punta Gorda Metropolitan Planning Organization's (MPO)
2040 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) indicates that a large portion of the county's population growth is expected
to occur in existing or redeveloping neighborhoods in Mid Charlotte County. Employment growth is anticipated around
major intersections and interchanges such as Harborview Road (CR 776) at US 41 and at I-75.
Harborview Road (CR 776) additionally serves as a freight distribution route as it connects US 41 [a designated regional
freight corridor] and I-75 [a SIS facility]. Approximately 7.2% of the 2015 annual average daily traffic volumes onType 2 Categorical Exclusion Page 4 of 101
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Harborview Road (CR 776) is composed of trucks. Not only does this roadway facilitate truck traffic and the distribution of
goods to local activity areas [particularly west of I-75], Harborview Road (CR 776) functions as an important corridor for
commuters due to its access to major north-south transportation facilities [US 41 and I-75] and surrounding residential and
commercial hubs. The Harborview Road (CR 776) corridor specifically facilitates local commuter traffic between
residential neighborhoods to the east of I-75 and employment centers to the west in Port Charlotte. Likewise, the corridor
provides access to I-75 [via US 41] for residents and employees within Port Charlotte.
The project is anticipated to enhance operational conditions of the corridor and serve the mobility demands of the area by:
Increasing the capacity of the corridor andAccommodating for multiple transportation modes [particularly through the provision of paved shoulders andsidewalks].
SAFETY: Improve Safety Conditions
The Signal Four Analytics database revealed that the project segment of Harborview Road (CR 776) experienced 65
collisions, including one fatality and 28 injuries, for the five-year period from 2012 to 2016. Rear-end crashes were the
most common crash type recorded along the project corridor, followed by off road and sideswipe crashes. The project
facility experienced four collisions involving a non-motorist. These crash types may be attributed to the deficient roadway
operational conditions as well as the high percentage of heavy trucks on the corridor mixed with non-truck traffic. If no
improvements occur to the existing roadway, the greater the opportunity for vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-
pedestrian/bicycle conflicts as traffic increases along the project facility.
Harborview Road (CR 776) serves as part of the emergency evacuation route network established for Charlotte County by
the Florida Division of Emergency Management due to its direct connection to US 41 and I-75 [designated north-south
evacuation facilities]. Harborview Road (CR 776) also serves as a critical facility for incident management regarding traffic
events that occur on either the US 41 or I-75 bridges over the Peace River. Harborview Road (CR 776) is the first exit to
the north of the Peace River for both bridges making it a significant corridor in the event of lane closures or a complete
closure on either the northbound or southbound direction of US 41 or I-75. The proposed project is anticipated to improve
safety conditions along the roadway by:
Alleviating a current traffic bottleneck between Melbourne Street and I-75 [thereby, dispersing traffic and improvingtraffic flow];Enhancing emergency evacuation, access, and response times; andAllowing for higher volumes of traffic to be accommodated in the event of a closure on either the US 41 or I-75 bridgesover the Peace River.
1.3. 1.3 Planning Consistency
1.3 Planning Consistency
CurrentlyAdoptedLRTP-CFP
COMMENTS
Yes
CurrentlyApproved $ FY COMMENTS
PE (Final Design)Type 2 Categorical Exclusion Page 5 of 101
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TIP Y 4,020,000 2020STIP Y 4,019,293 2020
R/WTIP Y 2,416,913 2023
STIP Y 1,868,752 >2022Construction
TIP NSTIP N
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2. 2. Environmental Analysis Summary
2. Environmental Analysis Summary Significant Impacts?*
Issues/Resources Yes No Enhance NoInv
3. Social and Economic 1. Social 2. Economic 3. Land Use Changes 4. Mobility 5. Aesthetic Effects 6. Relocation Potential 7. Farmland Resources4. Cultural Resources 1. Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act 2. Section 4(f) of the USDOT Act of 1966 3. Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund 4. Other Protected Public Lands5. Natural Resources 1. Protected Species and Habitat 2. Wetlands and Other Surface Waters 3. Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) 4. Floodplains 5. Sole Source Aquifer 6. Water Quality and Stormwater 7. Aquatic Preserves 8. Outstanding Florida Waters 9. Wild and Scenic Rivers 10. Coastal Barrier Resources6. Physical Resources 1. Highway Traffic Noise 2. Air Quality 3. Contamination 4. Utilities and Railroads 5. Construction
USCG PermitA USCG Permit IS NOT required.A USCG Permit IS required.
* Impact Determination: Yes = Significant; No = No Significant Impact; Enhance = Enhancement; NoInv = Issue absent,no involvement. Basis of decision is documented in the referenced attachment(s).
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3. 3. Social and Economic
3. Social and Economic
The project will not have significant social and economic impacts. Below is a summary of the evaluation performed.
3.1. 3.1 Social
3.1 Social
The proposed widening of Harborview Road will improve emergency response times and access for the people living and
working within the project limits. The Preferred Alternative provides pedestrian and bicycle facilities to better serve the
context of the surrounding community. Access to these facilities will be maintained with minimal disruption during
construction, and the project construction contractors will be required by the FDOT's Standard Specifications for Road and
Bridge Construction to maintain access for emergency services to all adjacent properties throughout construction.
This project was screened through the ETDM process as ETDM Number 5351. The results were published in the
Planning Screen Summary Report on August 28, 2017, with comments from the ETAT. The ETAT evaluated the project's
effects on various natural, physical and social resources. The Final Programming Screen Summary Report was published
on September 20, 2017, with the approved Class of Action determined as Type 2 Categorical Exclusion. Of the 21 issues
examined, none received a Degree of Effect (DOE) determination of "5" for Dispute Resolution. However, nine categories
received a DOE of "3 - Moderate" (Section 4(f) Potential, Historic and Archaeological Sites, Wetlands, Water Quality and
Quantity, Floodplains, Wildlife and Habitat, Coastal and Marine, Infrastructure, and Special Designations). Community
features identified within the one quarter-mile buffer of the project limits include: two Planned Unit Developments close to
the western end of the corridor, one Development of Regional Impact at the eastern project terminus, one assisted
housing facility, four homeowner and condominium associations, one school, five group care facilities, two mobile home
parks, five religious centers, archaeological and historic resources, and recreational trails. Access to these features will be
maintained during construction and no adverse effects resulting from this project have been identified. The public and
officials (elected and appointed) have been kept informed about the project through the use of meetings, newsletters, and
a project website.
An Advance Notification package was completed for this project and mailed to the Florida State Clearinghouse and local
and federal agencies on May 15, 2017, in accordance with the Coastal Zone Management Act and Presidential Executive
Order 12372. Comments received through the Advance Notification process were limited to wetland and navigation
impacts. There were no adverse comments regarding the proposed roadway improvements and all comments have been
addressed in the appropriate sections of this report.
Non-Discrimination Considerations
Executive Order 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations, signed by President
Bill Clinton on February 11, 1994, directs federal agencies to take appropriate and necessary steps to identify and
address disproportionately high and adverse effects of federal projects on the health or environment of minority and low-
income populations to the greatest extent practicable and permitted by law.
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As presented in the table below, the demographic characteristics for the 500-foot project buffer differ from the
characteristics for Charlotte County in that the 500-foot project buffer contains higher African-American, Other Race and
Hispanic population percentages; a higher percentage of individuals age 18 and under; a higher percentage of housing
units with no vehicle available; and a slightly lower median family income. The census blockgroups encompassing the
project contain 157 persons (1.90%) that "speak English less than very well". For this reason, Limited English Proficiency
(LEP) accommodations were not be required during public involvement efforts of the Project Development phase.
Project Demographics
*Source: US Census Bureau (2010 US Census)
**Source: US Census Bureau (2010 American Community Survey)
***"Other" includes Asian, American Indian, Native Hawaiian & Other Pacific Islander Alone, Some Other Race, & Two or
More Races.
This project has been developed without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status.
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 Executive Order 12898 and Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) Order 6640.23a - FHWA Actions to Address Environmental justice in Minority Populations and
Low-Income Populations, no further Environmental Justice analysis is required.
No comment has been received during this study regarding conflicts with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or related
statutes. Furthermore, the project is not anticipated to negatively affect community resources important to elderly persons,
disabled individuals, non-drivers, transit-dependent individuals, or minorities.
Community Cohesion
The proposed action is not expected to result in significant changes to community cohesion. There is no potential for
isolating neighborhoods. Considering the comprehensive public outreach program and minimal effects to social
resources, the Preferred Alternative is expected to have no significant impact on the social aspects of this community.
Demographic 500-Foot Buffer Charlotte County Difference
White (Race)* 87.4% 90.9% -3.5%
African-American (Race)* 7.1% 5.7% +1.4%
"Other"*** (Race)* 5.5% 4.3% +1.2%
Hispanic (Ethnic Group)* 7.1% 5.8% +1.3%
Age 65+** 32.5% 34.1% -1.6%
Under Age 18** 16.5% 14.3% +2.2%
Housing Units with No Vehicle Available** 8.7% 4.7% +4.0%
Median Family Income** $52,259 $52,533 -$274
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3.2. 3.2 Economic
3.2 Economic
The proposed action is anticipated to improve the economy of the local community. The project corridor poses as a
growing activity center of the county as it is surrounded by and connects areas targeted for redevelopment and new
development. Harborview Road serves as a distribution route of the established Freight Mobility Corridor network as it
connects US 41 and I-75, and functions as an important commuter corridor as it connects residential and commercial
hubs. The project will address operational deficiencies and accommodate the mobility needs of the area.
The project is within the Charlotte County Enterprise Zone and may potentially provide additional short-term, construction-
related employment opportunities. Supporting Charlotte County growth initiatives, the proposed project is anticipated to
better facilitate the westerly movement of freight in Charlotte County from I-75 by providing a viable alternate route to
parallel east-west arterials and maintaining a critical link between US 41 (a principal arterial) and I-75 (an SIS facility).
Improvements on Harborview Road may also increase access between I-75 and both employment centers and tourist
destinations within Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte. The proposed action is expected to enhance the economy of the
region.
3.3. 3.3 Land Use Changes
3.3 Land Use Changes
Existing land uses along the project corridor mainly consist of medium and low density residential uses as well as open
land; smaller amounts of high density residential and institutional activities are also present. The Harborview Road
corridor is a growing activity center of the County as it is within, surrounded by, and/or connects several areas targeted for
redevelopment and new development, including the Charlotte County Enterprise Zone, Charlotte County Community
Redevelopment Area, a number of Planned Unit Developments, and Developments of Regional Impact. The Charlotte
County Future Land Use Map indicates that the area surrounding the western and central portions of the project corridor
will continue to support residential activities and the area surrounding the eastern portion of the project corridor will
support public/institutional and mixed-use activities. The project is included in the Charlotte County-Punta Gorda MPO
2016/2017 - FY 2020/2021 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and Cost Feasible Plan of the Charlotte County-
Punta Gorda MPO's 2040 LRTP, the FDOT FY 2016/2017 - FY 2020/2021 Work Program, and the FDOT State
Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).
While additional ROW will be needed to accommodate the proposed operational improvements along Harborview Road
and access to proximate land uses could temporarily be affected during project construction, overall effects and changes
to surrounding land uses because of the project are anticipated to be limited. Overall, the Preferred Alternative is
expected to have no significant impact on land use along the Harborview Road corridor.
3.4. 3.4 Mobility
3.4 Mobility
The project section of Harborview Road is classified as a two-lane, undivided urban minor arterial and connects US 41 to
I-75. Harborview Road not only facilitates truck traffic and the distribution of goods to local activity areas, it also functions
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as an important corridor for commuters due to its access to major north-south transportation facilities, such as US 41 and
I-75, and surrounding employment/commercial hubs. Harborview Road is part of the emergency evacuation route network
established for Charlotte County and is a critical facility for incident management regarding traffic events that occur on
either the US 41 or I-75 bridges over the Peace River. Additionally, the corridor is located within a Transportation
Disadvantaged Service Provider Area and within the vicinity of recreational trails. The improved traffic operations along
the corridor resulting from the proposed action are expected to improve overall mobility in the area by:
Providing a viable alternate route to parallel east-west arterials and maintaining a critical link between US 41 and I-75;Enhancing the movement of freight;Improving safety conditions along the roadway (including enhancing the roadway's ability to serve as a viable route foremergency evacuation/response as well as a facility for managing traffic incidences that occur on either the US 41 or I-75 bridges over the Peace River); andCreating a viable corridor for multi-modal use through the provision of dedicated pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
Therefore, the Preferred Alternative is expected to enhance the mobility of the project area.
3.5. 3.5 Aesthetic Effects
3.5 Aesthetic EffectsFeatures associated with aesthetics that occur within the project vicinity include residential and water-related features.
The area surrounding the project is targeted for redevelopment and new development as indicated through the presence
of several Developments of Regional Impact and Planned Unit Developments. Charlotte County Future Land Use Map
reveals that the project area will continue to support residential, public/institutional, and mixed-use activities.
Overall, the proposed project improvements are consistent with the future land use vision and aesthetic character of the
corridor. The project improvements associated with the Preferred Alternative are expected to have no significant impact
on the aesthetics of the corridor.
3.6. 3.6 Relocation Potential
3.6 Relocation Potential
The Preferred Alternative will result in the relocation of three residential buildings. The two residences located at 24494
Harborview Road Unit 4 are part of a quadplex, with two duplex buildings. The residence located at 25059 Harborview
Road is classified as a single family residence. At this time, the project team is not aware of any handicapped or disabled
residential occupants needing special assistance. A summary of the impacted residences is shown in the below table. A
Conceptual Stage Relocation Plan (CSRP) (April 2019), prepared under separate cover, was developed to assess the
demographic makeup of the greater project area and to determine the availability of suitable replacement housing. The
CSRP provides additional information relating to relocation assistance.
Residential Relocations
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Therefore, based on the implementation of this program, the Preferred Alternative is expected to have no significant
impacts.
In order to minimize the unavoidable effects of Right of Way acquisition and displacement of people, the FloridaDepartment of Transportation (FDOT) will carry out a Right of Way and Relocation Assistance Program in accordancewith Florida Statute 421.55, Relocation of displaced persons, and the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real PropertyAcquisition Policies Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-646 as amended by Public Law 100-17).
3.7. 3.7 Farmland Resources
3.7 Farmland ResourcesThe project was evaluated for farmlands impacts pursuant to the Farmland Protection Policy Act of 1981 (7 CFR Part658).
A Farmlands Evaluation was conducted in February 2019 through coordination with the Natural Resources Conservation
Service (NRCS). The evaluation assessed impacts to farming operations and Prime and Unique Farmlands and the
resulting Farmlands Evaluation coordination is attached. The evaluation indicated 1.3 acres of soils classified as Prime
and Unique Farmlands may occur; however, the project area does not include active farming operations and, according to
the Charlotte County Future Land Use Map, the area surrounding the western and central portions of the project corridor
will continue to support residential activities while the area surrounding the eastern portion of the project corridor will
support public/institutional and mixed-use activities. The NRCS Farmlands Conversion Impact Rating of 67 was less than
the 160 points required for further consideration of protection of farmlands. Therefore, the Preferred Alternative is
expected to have no significant impact on farmlands within the project area.
Station Owner Parcel AddressParcelNumber
116+50 Snyder Real Estate LLC 24494 Harborview Rd Unit 4 402330230001
116+50 Snyder Real Estate LLC 24494 Harborview Rd Unit 4 402330230001
129+50 Corporacion Euanitos SA 25059 Harborview Rd 402329108003
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4. 4. Cultural Resources
4. Cultural Resources
The project will not have significant impacts to cultural resources. Below is a summary of the evaluation performed.
4.1. 4.1 Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act
4.1 Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation ActA Cultural Resource Assessment Survey (CRAS), conducted in accordance with 36 CFR Part 800, was performed for theproject, and the resources listed below were identified within the project Area of Potential Effect (APE). FDOT found thatthese resources do not meet the eligibility criteria for inclusion in the National Register, and State Historic PreservationOfficer (SHPO) has concurred with this evaluation. Therefore, FDOT, in consultation with SHPO, has determined that theproposed project will result in No Historic Properties Affected.
CRAS concurrence was granted by the SHPO on December 19, 2018, and documentation is included as an attachment.
The purpose of the CRAS was to locate and identify any cultural resources within the APE, and to assess their
significance in terms of eligibility for listing in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Based on the scale and
nature of the proposed undertaking, which includes widening Harborview Road from two lanes to four lanes, the
archaeological APE was defined as the existing and proposed ROW. The historic/architectural APE includes the
archaeological APE and immediately adjacent parcels.
Historic/architectural background research, including a review of the FMSF and the NRHP, indicated that twelve historic
resources were previously recorded within the historic APE, including eleven buildings (8CH01338, 8CH01444,
8CH01446, 8CH01451-8CH01456, 8CH01461-8CH01462) and one linear resource (8CH02053). None of these resources
has been evaluated by the SHPO. Thus, these resources were reevaluated and updated Florida Master Site File (FMSF)
forms were prepared. A review of Charlotte County property appraiser data indicated the potential for six more historic
resources (50 years of age or older) within the APE. Field survey confirmed the presence of these resources (8CH02722-
8CH02727), all of which are residential buildings constructed between 1958 and 1961. None of the previously recorded or
newly identified resources is a distinctive embodiment of a type, period, or method of construction. In addition,
background research did not reveal any historic associations with significant persons and/or events. Therefore, none of
the twelve previously recorded or six newly identified historic resources within the APE is considered potentially eligible for
the NRHP, either individually or as part of a historic district.
Archaeological background research, which included a review of the ETDM Report (#5351), the FMSF, and the NRHP,
indicated that no archaeological sites were recorded within the archaeological APE, but two previously recorded sites,
8CH00502 and 8CH00499, were recorded within one mile of the APE. A review of relevant site locational information for
environmentally similar areas within Charlotte County and the surrounding region indicated areas of moderate potential for
the occurrence of prehistoric sites within the APE. The background research indicated that prehistoric sites, if present,
would most likely be small shell middens or artifact scatters. As a result of field survey, no archaeological sites were
identified within the APE.
In total, 62 shovel tests were excavated within the archaeological APE. The shovel tests exhibited evidence of a disturbed
archaeological APE. This was due to buried utilities, drains, and ditches. All 62 shovel test pits were negative for cultural
materials and no evidence of precontact or historic period archaeological sites, features, or artifacts was encountered in
the APE. This lack of cultural materials was expected, given the extensive disturbance of the archaeological APE.
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Based on the results of the historic and archaeological investigation, the Preferred Alternative is expected to have no
impacts to sites protected under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.
4.2. 4.2 Section 4(f) of the USDOT Act of 1966, as amended
4.2 Section 4(f) of the USDOT Act of 1966, as amended There are no properties in the project area that are protected pursuant to Section 4(f) of the USDOT Act of 1966.
4.3. 4.3 Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965
4.3 Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965There are no properties in the project area that are protected pursuant to Section 6(f) of the Land and Water ConservationFund of 1965.
4.4. 4.4 Other Protected Public Lands
4.4 Other Protected Public LandsThere are no other protected public lands in the project area.
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5. 5. Natural Resources
5. Natural Resources
The project will not have significant impacts to natural resources. Below is a summary of the evaluation performed:
5.1. 5.1 Protected Species and Habitat
5.1 Protected Species and HabitatThe following evaluation was conducted pursuant to Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 as amended aswell as other applicable federal and state laws protecting wildlife and habitat.
A Natural Resources Evaluation (NRE) (January 2019) report was prepared under separate cover as part of consultation
required under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The evaluation included literature review,
database searches, and field assessments of the project area to identify the potential occurrence of protected species
and/or presence of federal-designated critical habitat.
Project environmental scientists conducted field reviews of the project study area during June of 2017 and during January
and May of 2018. The evaluation included coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Florida Fish
and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). Based on evaluation of
collected data and field reviews, the federal- and state-listed species discussed below were observed as having the
potential to occur within or adjacent to the project area. An effect determination was then made for each of these federal-
and state-listed species based on an analysis of the potential impacts of the proposed project on each species. A
summary of the determinations is shown below.
Summary of Species Effects
Project ImpactDetermination Federal Listed Species
"No effect" Beautiful pawpaw (Deeringothamnus pulchellus)
Aboriginal prickly apple (Harrisia aboriginum)
Gulf sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus desotoi)
Red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis)
"May affect, but is not likelyto adversely affect" Smalltooth sawfish (Prisitis pectinata)
American alligator (Alligator Mississippiensis)
Leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Kemp's Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys kempii)
American crocodile (Crocodylus acustus)
Eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon couperi)
Everglade snail kite (Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus)
Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens)
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The NRE was submitted to the USFWS, FWC, and NMFS on February 7, 2019. The concurrence letter from FWC, dated
March 6, 2019, is included as an attachment. There is anticipated to be less than 0.5 acres of impacts to smalltooth
sawfish critical habitat which will not result in a significant impact to critical habitat for the species; however, coordination
with NMFS resulted in a commitment to initiate formal smalltooth sawfish consultation during the project design phase
when design-level construction methodology information is available. Coordination with USFWS has also resulted in a
commitment to initiate Florida bonneted bat consultation during the project design phase. Copies of the coordination with
NMFS and USFWS have been included as an attachment. Additionally, a commitment has been made to implement the
USFWS standard protection measures for the Eastern indigo snake during construction. Therefore, based on adherence
to these commitments, the preparation of updated species surveys during the design phase, and design-level agency
consultation, this project is expected to have no significant impacts on protected species or habitat.
Crested caracara (Caracara cheriway)
Piping plover (Charadrius melodus)
Wood stork (Mycteria Americana)
Florida bonneted bat (Eumops floridanus)
West Indian Manatee (Trichecus manatus)
Project ImpactDetermination State Listed Species
"No effect anticipated" Many-flowered grass-pink (Calopogon multiforus)
Iguana hackberry (Celtis igunaea)
Florida beargrass (Nolina atopocarpa)
Sleeping beauty waterlily (Nolina brittoniana)
Hand fern (Ophioglossum palmatum)
Giant orchid (Pteroglossaspis ecristata)
Florida burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia floridana)
"No adverse effectanticipated" Golden Leather Fern (Acrostichum aureum)
Gopher tortoise ( Gopherus Polyphemus)
Pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus)
American oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus)
Black skimmer (Rynchops niger)
Florida sandhill crane (Grus Canadensis pratensis)
Least tern (Sternula antillarum)
Little blue heron (Egretta caerulea)
Tricolored heron (Egretta tricolor)
Roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja)
Southeastern American kestrel (Falco sparverius paulus)
Snowy plover (Charadrius nivosus)
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5.2. 5.2 Wetlands and Other Surface Waters
5.2 Wetlands and Other Surface WatersThe following evaluation was conducted pursuant to Presidential Executive Order 11990 of 1977 as amended, Protectionof Wetlands and the USDOT Order 5660.1A, Preservation of the Nation's Wetlands.
An NRE (August 2018) report was prepared under separate cover for this project. The purpose of this evaluation was to
assure the protection, preservation, and enhancement of wetlands to the fullest extent practicable.
Field reviews identified a total of 62 wetlands and surface water types within the project study area. Wetland and surface
water habitats include bays and estuaries, mangrove swamps, vegetated non-forested wetlands, saltwater marshes,
exotic wetland hardwoods - Brazilian pepper, canals, and numerous excavated drainage features (e.g., ditches). Culverts
under Harborview Road and bridge crossings provide hydrologic connections between wetland systems located on either
side of the highway (maps are available in the NRE under separate cover).
The Preferred Alternative may impact an estimated 0.80 acres of wetlands and 2.70 acres of surface waters. The project
study area is located within the service areas of the Little Pine Island Mitigation Bank. The mitigation bank is within the
Charlotte Harbor Drainage Basin and service portions of Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Sarasota, and Desoto Counties. As of
August 5, 2019, there are over 73 forested freshwater credits and over 147 herbaceous freshwater credits remaining
within the Little Pine Island Mitigation Bank.
The Preferred Alternative will result in an estimated Uniform Mitigation Assessment Methodology (UMAM) loss of 1.35
functional units. All UMAM scores, UMAM calculations, preliminary wetland lines and determinations discussed are
subject to revisions and approval by regulatory agencies during the permitting process. The exact type of mitigation used
to offset wetland impacts from the proposed Harborview Road improvements will be coordinated with the US Army Corps
of Engineers (USACE) and the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) during the permitting phase(s)
of this project. The NRE was submitted to the USACE and SWFWMD, as well as the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the Florida Division of Agriculture and Consumer
Services on February 7, 2019. The SWFWMD has reviewed the NRE findings and has requested further coordination
during the design permitting phase. SWFWMD correspondence has been included as an attachment.
The proposed project was evaluated for potential wetland impacts in accordance with Executive Order 11990, Protection
of Wetlands. Based upon the above considerations, it is determined that there is no practicable alternative to the
proposed construction in wetlands and the proposed action includes all practicable measures to minimize impacts to
wetlands which may result from such use. Wetland impacts that result from the construction of this project will be
mitigated pursuant to 373.4137 F.S. to satisfy all mitigation requirements of Part IV, Chapter 373 and 33 U.S.C. 1344.
Therefore, the Preferred Alternative will have no significant impact on wetlands.
5.3. 5.3 Essential Fish Habitat (EFH)
5.3 Essential Fish Habitat (EFH)An Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Assessment has been prepared and consultation has been completed in accordance withthe Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSFCMA). It has been determined that this projectwill not have adverse effects to EFH. Should any changes occur during the design and permitting process that affect theconsultation, re-initiation of the consultation process will be coordinated with National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS).
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An Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Assessment has been prepared and consultation has been completed in accordance with
the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSFCMA). Further coordination will be conducted
during the final design phase; however, it is anticipated that this project will not have adverse effects to EFH. Should any
changes occur during the design and permitting process that affect the consultation, re-initiation of the consultation
process will be coordinated with National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS).
The project study area spans over a small area of estuarine habitat towards the east end of the project. There is no
seagrass or shellfish habitat identified within the project study area. Due to the nature of the project, no populations of any
of the 55 managed species and the coral complex listed by the GMFMC are expected to be adversely affected by the
proposed project. Therefore, the Preferred Alternative is expected to have no significant impact on EFH.
5.4. 5.4 Floodplains
5.4 FloodplainsFloodplain impacts resulting from the project were evaluated pursuant to Executive Order 11988 of 1977, FloodplainManagement.
A Location Hydraulic Report (LHR) (August 2018) was prepared under separate cover for the project.
The purpose of the LHR is to address base floodplain encroachments resulting from the roadway improvements evaluated
in the PD&E Study. The intent is to avoid or minimize highway encroachments with the 100-year floodplains and to avoid
supporting land use development incompatible with floodplain values. The Preferred Alternative does not encroach into a
regulatory floodway. The majority of the project is located within Zone AE and Zone VE. Zone AE is defined as an area
subject to inundation by the 1% annual chance flood (100-year flood), for which a base flood elevation (BFE) has been
determined. Zone VE is defined as a coastal flood zone with velocity hazard (wave action), for which a BFE has been
determined. Since all Zone AE and Zone VE floodplains within the project limits are tidal, floodplain compensation is not
required.
Therefore, it has been determined that this project will have no significant impact on floodplains.
5.5. 5.5 Sole Source Aquifer
5.5 Sole Source AquiferThere is no Sole Source Aquifer associated with this project.
5.6. 5.6 Water Quality and Stormwater
5.6 Water Quality and StormwaterA Pond Siting Report (PSR) (August 2018) was completed under separate cover as part of the PD&E study. The purpose
of the PSR is to estimate the volume required to mitigate stormwater issues and identify ROW needs for any necessary
off-site stormwater management facilities. The report identified six pond sites and one historic basin storage
compensation site for the project improvements and documents possible environmental impacts associated with the
ponds and compensation site. Six drainage sub-basins were delineated along the project.
Stormwater runoff from Harborview Road will be collected and conveyed to stormwater management facilities via curb
and gutter and a closed drainage system. The stormwater management facilities will provide water quality (treatment) and
water quantity (attenuation). The method of stormwater treatment for this project includes wet detention and upflow
filtration, as necessary, to achieve the required nutrient removal. The pond sizes were estimated using SWFWMD and
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FDOT water quality treatment and attenuation requirements.
A Water Quality Impact Evaluation (WQIE) (January 2019) was prepared under separate cover for the project. The project
is located within the Sunrise Waterways (Water Body Identification Number 2056E), which is impaired for nutrients;
therefore, the project is required to demonstrate a net improvement for total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP).
Therefore, the Preferred Alternative is expected to have no significant impact on water quality and quantity.
5.7. 5.7 Aquatic Preserves
5.7 Aquatic PreservesThere are no aquatic preserves in the project area.
5.8. 5.8 Outstanding Florida Waters
5.8 Outstanding Florida WatersThere are no Outstanding Florida Waters (OFWs) reported within the project vicinity; however, the Gasparilla Sound-
Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserve OFW occurs less than one mile from the eastern project terminus. The project will be
designed to meet state criteria for stormwater discharge, and best management practices will be utilized during
construction to prevent impacts to downgradient estuarine habitats. Therefore, the Preferred Alternative will have no
significant impact on OFWs.
5.9. 5.9 Wild and Scenic Rivers
5.9 Wild and Scenic RiversThere are no designated Wild and Scenic Rivers in the project area.
5.10. 5.10 Coastal Barrier Resources
5.10 Coastal Barrier ResourcesThere are no Coastal Barrier Resources in the project area.
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6. 6. Physical Resources
6. Physical Resources
The project will not have significant impacts to physical resources. Below is a summary of the evaluation performed forthese resources.
6.1. 6.1 Highway Traffic Noise
6.1 Highway Traffic NoiseThe following evaluation was conducted pursuant to 23 CFR 772 and Section 335.17, F.S., Procedures for Abatement ofHighway Traffic Noise and Construction Noise.
A Noise Study Report (NSR) (October 2018) was prepared under separate cover for this project following FDOT
procedures that comply with Title 23 CFR, Part 772, Procedures for Abatement of Highway Traffic Noise and Construction
Noise. The evaluation uses methodologies established by FDOT and documented in the PD&E Manual. The prediction of
traffic noise levels with and without the roadway improvements was performed using FHWA's Traffic Noise Model (TNM)
Version 2.5.
For the Preferred Alternative, noise levels were predicted at 139 noise sensitive sites located adjacent to Harborview
Road. Of the 139 noise sensitive sites evaluated, 38 residences are predicted to experience future noise levels that
approach, meet, or exceed the Noise Abatement Category (NAC) for Activity Category B. None of the evaluated sites will
experience a substantial increase (15 dB(A) or more) of traffic noise as a result of the proposed widening.
Noise abatement measures were evaluated for the 38 residences. It was determined that traffic system management
techniques, alignment modifications and property acquisition are not reasonable abatement measures. However, land use
controls were identified as a feasible abatement measure that could be used in the future by local officials to minimize the
permitting and construction of incompatible land uses along the Harborview Road corridor.
Noise barriers were found not to be a feasible abatement measure for 14 of these sites because FDOT guidance
stipulates that a minimum of two impacted sites must achieve a 5 dB(A) or greater reduction in order for a noise barrier to
be considered feasible. There are 14 instances where only one impacted site occurs in a particular area along the
Harborview Road study area and therefore a noise barrier was not considered for that location.
The TNM was used to evaluate the effectiveness of noise barriers for the remaining 24 residences and barriers were
found to be a cost reasonable and feasible abatement measure for the impacted sites at five different locations along
Harborview Road. The five locations where noise barrier systems are potentially cost reasonable and feasible are as
follows:
Birchwood CondominiumsMulti-Family residences east of Drance StreetHarbor View Mobile Home ParkMulti-Family residences between Date Street and Coconut StreetSingle Family homes between Coconut Street and Drance Street
A review will be performed during the future project Design phase to identify potential noise sensitive sites that may have
received a building permit subsequent to the noise study but prior to the project's Date of Public Knowledge. The date that
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the Type 2 Categorical Exclusion is approved will be the Date of Public Knowledge. If the review identifies noise sensitive
sites that have been permitted prior to the date of public knowledge, those sites will be evaluated for traffic noise and
potential abatement considerations.
Based on the results of the traffic noise analysis, the consideration of noise barriers to mitigate traffic noise impacts, and
the consideration of potential construction noise, the Preferred Alternative is expected to have no significant impact on
noise sensitive sites located adjacent to Harborview Road.
6.2. 6.2 Air Quality
6.2 Air QualityThis project is not expected to create adverse impacts on air quality because the project area is in attainment for allNational Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and because the project is expected to improve the Level of Service(LOS) and reduce delay and congestion on all facilities within the study area.
This project is expected to improve traffic flow by adding capacity to relieve congestion, which should reduce operational
greenhouse gas emissions.
Construction-phase air quality impacts will be short-term and will primarily be in the form of emissions from diesel-
powered construction equipment and dust from construction activities. Air pollution associated with the creation of
airborne particles will be effectively controlled through the use of watering or the application of other controlled materials
in accordance with FDOT's Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction as directed by the FDOT Project
Engineer.
Therefore, the Preferred Alternative is expected to have no significant impact on air quality.
6.3. 6.3 Contamination
6.3 Contamination
A Level I contamination evaluation was conducted for the study and a Contamination Screening Evaluation Report
(CSER) (October 2018) was prepared under separate cover pursuant to FHWA's Technical Advisory T 6640.8A and the
FDOT PD&E Manual, Part 2 Chapter 20. A Level I assessment was conducted to identify and evaluate sites containing
hazardous materials, petroleum products, or other sources of potential environmental contamination along Harborview
Road from Melbourne Street to west of I-75.
Based on a document and site review, five sites along the corridor were evaluated and found to have no potential
contamination risk to the study. Level II testing is not recommended, and the Preferred Alternative will result in no
significant contamination impacts.
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6.4. 6.4 Utilities and Railroads
6.4 Utilities and Railroads
Overhead and buried utilities extend along both sides of Harborview Road through the project limits. There are no existing
railroad facilities within the project area. The utility companies were contacted in August and September of 2017 to identify
the locations and types of utilities within the project limits. Plan sheets were transmitted to the companies with a request to
identify the location(s) of existing facilities and planned facilities. The existing utilities include overhead electric, buried
communication lines, and water and sewer lines. The list of utility agencies/owners known to operate utilities within the
project corridor include:
Charlotte County Lighting DistrictCharlotte County UtilitiesCharlotte Harbor WaterFlorida Power & LightComcast CableCentury Link
Widening Harborview Road will require relocations of some existing utilities located by permit within existing Charlotte
County ROW. FDOT coordination with potentially affected utility owners will continue as necessary throughout the future
project design and construction phases. Project design efforts will seek to avoid and minimize impacts to existing utilities
to the extent feasible within the roadway ROW. The Preferred Alternative will have no significant impact on utilities or
railroads.
6.5. 6.5 Construction
6.5 ConstructionConstruction activities may cause short-term air quality impacts in the form of dust from earthwork and unpaved roads.These impacts will be minimized by adherence to applicable state regulations and to the FDOT Standard Specificationsfor Road and Bridge Construction.
Construction activities for the proposed project may cause minor short-term air quality, noise, water quality, traffic
congestion, and visual impacts for residents and travelers within the immediate vicinity of the project.
Minor noise and vibration effects may occur from heavy equipment movement and construction activities. This will be
minimized by adherence to noise control measures found in the most current edition of the FDOT's Standard
Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction. Specific noise level problems that may arise during construction of the
project will be addressed by the Construction Engineer in cooperation with the appropriate Environmental Specialist.
Water quality impacts resulting from erosion and sedimentation during construction will be controlled in accordance with
the most current edition of the FDOT's Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction, "Prevention, Control,
and Abatement of Erosion and Water Pollution," and through the use of best management practices (BMP).
Short-term construction related wetland impacts will be minimized by adherence to FDOT's Standard Specifications for
Road and Bridge Construction. These specifications include measures known as BMPs, which include the use of siltation
barriers, dewatering structures, and containment devices that will be implemented for controlling turbid water discharges
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outside of construction limits.
Maintenance of traffic and sequence of construction will be planned and scheduled so as to minimize traffic delays
throughout the project. Signage will be used as appropriate to provide pertinent information to the traveling public. The
local news media will be notified in advance of road closings and other construction related activities that would
excessively inconvenience the community so that motorists, residents, and business persons can make other
accommodations. Applicable provisions of FDOT's Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction will be
followed. A sign providing the name, address, and telephone of an FDOT contact person will be displayed on-site to assist
the public in obtaining immediate answers to questions about project activity.
Access to local properties, businesses and residences will be maintained to the extent practical through controlled
construction scheduling and the implementation of the project's specific Traffic Control Plan(s) and implementation of
FDOT's Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction.
For residents living along the project, some of the construction materials stored for the project may be displeasing visually;
however, this will be a temporary condition and should pose no substantial problem.
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7. 7. Engineering Analysis Support
7. Engineering Analysis Support
The engineering analysis supporting this environmental document is contained within the Preliminary Engineering Report.
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8. 8. Permits
8. Permits
The following environmental permits are anticipated for this project:
Federal Permit(s) StatusUSACE Section 10 or Section 404 Permit To be acquired
State Permit(s) StatusDEP or WMD Environmental Resource Permit (ERP) To be acquiredFWC Gopher Tortoise Relocation Permit To be acquired
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9. 9. Public Involvement
9. Public Involvement
The following is a summary of public involvement activities conducted for this project:
Summary of Activities Other than the Public HearingA comprehensive Public Involvement Plan (PIP) (July 2017) was prepared and initiated at the start of the study. This plan
was implemented in accordance with the FDOT Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Manual; Section 339.155,
Florida Statute (F.S.); Executive Orders 11990, Protection of Wetlands and 11988, Floodplain Management; Council on
Environmental Quality (CEQ) Regulations for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy
Act; and 23 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 771. This report outlines the strategies used to address public
involvement and outreach over the course of the study. At the conclusion of the study, a Comments and Coordination
Report (April 2019) was prepared to fully document the public stakeholder involvement associated with this project.
Stakeholder and Agency Coordination
Numerous agencies were identified that would have an interest in the Harborview Road PD&E Study. The agency mailing
list included representatives from the ETAT such as federal and state governments, and state permitting agencies.
A meeting was held on September 6, 2017, with SWFWMD staff at their offices in Tampa, FL. SWFWMD staff provided
guidance for the project drainage methodology.
Presentations were delivered to the Charlotte County-Punta Gorda MPO Technical Advisory and Community Advisory
Committees on April 18, 2018, and to the MPO Board on May 7, 2018. The meetings and presentations provided an
overview of the project, including project limits and project schedule.
Alternatives Public Workshop
A public workshop was held on Thursday, March 29, 2018, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Charlotte County MPO in
Port Charlotte, Florida. The Northern Widening, Southern Widening, and Optimized Widening Alternatives and summaries
of their associated costs and impacts were presented to the public. The workshop was attended by 134 citizens and four
public officials. All attendees were given the opportunity to provide written comments at the workshop or within a 10-day
comment period. Thirty-nine (39) comments were received at the workshop and 16 comments were received during the
comment period. Of the 55 comments, nine supported the Northern Widening Alternative, four supported the Southern
Widening Alternative, eight supported the Optimized Widening Alternative, 12 supported the No-Build Alternative, and the
remainder were related to other project items. All comments received were taken into consideration in the development of
the alternatives.
Date of Public Hearing: 03/14/2019Summary of Public HearingA public hearing was held on Thursday, March 14, 2019, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Charlotte County-Punta Gorda
MPO in Port Charlotte, Florida. The hearing was attended by 134 citizens; no public officials were in attendance. The
Preferred Alternative was presented to the public and attendees were provided the opportunity to offer public testimony
and/or written comments regarding the project, or to provide comments within a 10-day comment period. Eleven citizens
provided verbal comments during the public testimony portion of the hearing and one gave his comment directly to the
court reporter. Twenty-four written comments were received at the hearing, and ten comment forms and/or emails were
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received during the ten-day comment period following the hearing, ending on March 25, 2019. Of the thirty-four comments
received, eight supported the project, thirteen supported the No-Build Alternative, and the remaining comments either
wanted to be added to the mailing list, or had a specific concern related to roundabouts, noise, right-of-way, bike lanes or
medians. All comments received were taken into consideration in the development of the alternatives.
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10. 10. Project Commitments
10. Project Commitments
1. The USFWS Standard Protection Measures for the Eastern Indigo Snake will be implemented to ensure that theEastern Indigo Snake will not be adversely impacted by the project.
2. ESA Section 7 consultation for the Florida Bonneted Bat will be initiated with the USFWS during the design phase ofthe project.
3. ESA Section 7 consultation for sea turtles will be initiated with NMFS during the design phase of the project.
4. ESA Section 7 formal consultation for the small tooth sawfish will be initiated with NMFS during the design phase ofthe project.
5. A land use review will also be implemented during the design phase to identify noise sensitive sites that may havereceived a building permit subsequent to the noise evaluation but prior to the date of public knowledge (i.e., datethat the environmental document has been approved by the FDOT Office of Environmental Management). If thereview identifies noise sensitive sites that have been permitted prior to the date of public knowledge, those sites willbe evaluated for traffic noise and potential abatement considerations.
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11. 11. Technical Materials
11. Technical Materials
The following technical materials have been prepared to support this environmental document.
NRCS Coordination Documentation Conceptual Stage Relocation Plan Cultural Resources Assessment Survey (CRAS) Ponds Cultural Resources Assessment Survey (CRAS) Pond Siting Report (PSR) Water Quality Impact Evaluation (WQIE) Natural Resources Evaluation (NRE) Location Hydraulics Report Noise Study Report (NSR) Contamination Screening Evaluation Report (CSER) Preliminary Engineering Report Project Traffic Report Public Involvement Comments/Responses Public Involvement Plan
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12. Attachments
Attachments
Planning ConsistencyProject Plan Consistency Documentation
Social and EconomicNRCS Coordination Documentation
Cultural ResourcesSHPO Concurrence Letter
Natural ResourcesUSFWS Coordination NMFS Essential Fish Habitat Correspondence SWFWMD Coordination USEPA Coordination FWC Coordination
Public InvolvementPublic Hearing Transcript Public Hearing Certification Documentation
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Planning Consistency AppendixContents:Project Plan Consistency Documentation
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2040 Transportation PlanCharlotte County-Punta Gorda MPO
Charlotte County-Punta Gorda MPO 2040 LRTP
Table 7-2: Cost Feasible Plan Road Projects
Facility From To# of
Existing Lanes
Project Length (Miles)
Juris-diction
Area Type Project Description Revenue Source Cost
(PDC)2019-2020 (YOE) 2021-2025 (YOE) 2026-2030 (YOE) 2031-2040 (YOE)
PD&E PE ROW CST PD&E PE ROW CST PD&E PE ROW CST PD&E PE ROW CST
Burnt Store Road North of Zemel Road Scham Road 2U 4.17 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County, Developer $41.77 $53.05
Airport Road US 41 Piper Road 2U 2.62 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County, Local $12.30 $2.05 $6.15
Burnt Store Road North Jones Loop Taylor Road 2U 0.998 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) TRIP, County $13.34 $0.78 $2.34
Burnt Store Road Ext. Taylor Road Florida Street 00 2.116 County Urban Roadway - New Construction (4L) County $6.28 $2.45
Toledo Blade (CR 39) US 41 (W) Hillsborough Boulevard 4D 0.995 County Urban Roadway - Widening (4L to 6L) County, Developer $15.54 $0.64 $2.27 $3.95 $16.47
Toledo Blade (CR 39) SR 776 Whitney Avenue 2U 0.521 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County, Developer $6.26 $0.30 $1.08 $7.83
Toledo Blade (CR 39) SR 776 Whitney Avenue 4U 0.521 County Urban Roadway - Widening (4L to 6L) County, Developer $6.58 $1.38 $8.62
Toledo Blade (CR 39) Whitney Avenue US 41 (W) 4D 0.249 County Urban Roadway - Widening (4L to 6L) County, Developer $3.89 $0.16 $0.57 $0.99 $4.12
CR 771 Appleton Boulevard Rotonda Boulevard East 2U 1.75 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County, Developer $3.51 $1.37 $4.10
Edgewater Drive Jowett Street Collingswood Blvd 2U 0.239 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County $4.91 $0.20 $0.60 $3.87 $4.92
Edgewater Drive Collingswood Blvd Pellam Blvd 2U 0.929 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County $2.16 $0.73 $2.18 $0.63
Edgewater Drive Pellam Boulevard Midway Blvd 2U 0.614 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County $1.42 $0.48 $1.44 $0.41
Flamingo Boulevard (Realignment) Edgewater Drive Como Street 0 0.557 County Urban Roadway - New Construction (4L) County $10.21 $3.24 $15.79
Flamingo Boulevard Como Street Wintergarden Avenue 2U 0.832 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County $8.33 $15.92
Flamingo Boulevard Wintergarden Avenue SR 776 2U 1.041 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County $14.06 $7.73 $19.92
Flamingo Boulevard SR 776 US 41 2U 0.98 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County $1.96 $0.77 $2.30
Harbor View Road Melbourne Street Date Street 2U 1.12 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County, Developer, OA $14.77 $4.17 $14.25
Harbor View Road Date Street Purdy Drive 2U 0.666 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County, Developer, OA $8.78 $2.48 $8.47
Harbor View Road Purdy Drive I-75 2U 0.8209 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County, Developer, OA $10.82 $3.06 $12.33
Hillsborough Boulevard South Cranberry Boulevard
Toledo Blade Boulevard 2U 2.45 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County $4.91 $1.92 $5.75
I-75 North Jones Loop US 17 4D 3.3 State Urban Interstate - Widening (4L to 6L) SIS $56.00 $0.17 $71.12
North Jones Loop Road Burnt Store Road Piper Road 4D 1.8 County Urban Roadway - Widening (4L to 6L) County $5.83 $3.63 $4.76
Kings Highway North of Sandhill Boulevard
Desoto County Line 2U 0.5 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County $5.01 $5.71
West Marion Avenue Hibiscus Drive Bal Harbor Boulevard 4D 0.926 County Urban Road Diet (4L to 2L) Local $0.51 $0.10 $0.29 $2.37
West Marion Avenue Bal Harbor Boulevard West Henry Street 4U 0.425 County Urban Road Diet (4L to 2L) Local $0.24 $0.04 $0.14 $1.09
East Marion Avenue US 41 Marlympia Way 3O 1.422 County Urban Road Diet (3L to 2L) Local $0.79 $0.15 $0.44 $3.64
East Olympia Avenue US 41 Marlympia Way 3O 1.32 County Urban Road Diet (3L to 2L) Local $2.70 $0.14 $0.41 $3.38
Peachland Boulevard Cochran Boulevard Harbor Boulevard 2U 2.47 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County $4.95 $1.93 $5.79
Rampart Boulevard West of I-75 Rio De Janeiro Avenue 2U 1.75 County Urban Roadway - Widening (2L to 4L) County $3.51 $1.37 $4.10
Costs presented in millions
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# FPN Facility Phase Fund 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
4402341
Description: PE/EMO STUDY
NORTH ALLIGATOR CREEKPEDESTRIAN BRIDGE
1 CST TLWR $0 $0$782,000 $0 $0
$782,000 $0 $0 $0Project Total:
4349652
Description: ADD LANES & RECONSTRUCT
HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75
2 ENV SL $0 $0 $0 $0
PE SL $0 $4,020,000 $0 $0
$0 $0 $2,416,913Project Total:
4366021
Description: AERA TSER
I-75 REST AREA
3
TSC DRA $0 $0 $19,499,931 $0
ROW DIH $39,338$0 $0 $0
$0 $0$29,387,370Project Total:
4381571
Description: SIDEWALK
HARBORWALK PHASE II- WEST RETTA ESPLANDE FROM MAUDE ST TO BERRY ST
4 CST TALL $0 $0 $0 $0$353,603
CST SL $0 $13,605 $0 $0
$90,000 $0$0 $367,208 $0Project Total:
4130432
Description: ADD LANES & RECONSTRUCT
I-75 (SR93) FROM S OF HARBORVIEW ROAD TO NORTH OF KINGS HWY
5 INC DI $0 $0 $0 $0
$0 $0 $0Project Total:
4130424
Description: ADD LANES & RECONSTRUCT
I-75 FROM S OF N JONES LOOP TO N OF US 17
6 CST ACNP
CST DI $0
ENV ACNP
RRU ACNP
RRU DI
$0 $0Project Total:
4365631
Description: PD&E/EMO STUDY
NORTH JONES LOOP RD FROM BURNT STORE ROAD TO PIPER ROAD
7 PDE SL $0 $0 1,220,000 $0
$0 $0 $0$1,220,000 $0Project Total:
4419501
Description: INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT
SR 31 FROM CR 74 TO CR 74
8 PE DDR $1,200,000$0 $0 $0
$1,200,000 $0 $0Project Total:
DI $0 $1,600,000 $0 $0
$0 $0 $0 $0
$0 $0 $0
$0 $0 $0 $0
$0 $0 $0 $0
$0 $0 $0 $0
$0
$0
$0
$0
SL $0 $0 $0ROW $0
$0 $0
CST DIH $55,500$0 $0 $0$0
CST DDR $9,831,939$0 $0 $0$0
ROW DRA $0
$0
$1,600,000
4382621
Description: SIDEWALK
SR 45 (US 41) TAMIAMI TRAIL FROM CONWAY BLVD TO MIDWAY BLVD
9
$0 $0
PE TALL $0 $0 $0 $60,786
PE TALT $0 $0 $0 $199,214
$0
4365971
Description: RESURFACING
SR 776 FROM NORTH OF PLACIDA RD/PINE ST/CR 775 TO SPINNAKER BLVD
10 CST DDR $0 $5,906,320 $0 $0
CST DIH $0 $250,013 $0 $0
$0 $7,554,968 $0Project Total:
4383781
Description: INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT
SR 776 FROM FLAMINGO BLVDTO SAM’S CLUB ENTRANCE
11 CST SA $30,840 $0 $0 $0
CST DS $39,529 $0 $0
CST HSP $1,228,723 $0 $0
$1,299,092 $0Project Total:
4351051
Description: PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING
TAYLOR RD FROM US 41 TO AIRPORT RD
12 PDE TALL $0 $0$725,000 $0 $0
$0$725,000 $0Project Total:
4312191
Description: INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT
US 41 (SR 45) AT HANCOCK AVENUE
13 ACSL SL $0 $1,339,755 $0 $0
DS $0 $0 $0
CST $0$204,696 $0 $0
$0 $0 $0 $0
$1,609,871 $0Project Total:
# FPN Facility Phase Fund 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
435105 2
Description: SIDEWALK
14 PE SL $0 $0 $536,431
$128,569$0 $0 $0$0
$0 $0 $0Project Total:
4350991
Description: INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT
US 41 AT CARMALITA ST EXTENSION
15 PDE DDR $0 $0$699,999 $0$0
PDE DIH $0 $0$70,000 $0$0
PE DDR $0 $0$0 $1,500,000$50,000
PE DIH $0 $0$0 $0$75,000
$0$769,999 $125,000Project Total:
$0
$0
$0
$0 $0 $0
$0
$0
$0
$0 $0 $0 $260,000Project Total:
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$1,500,000
TAYLOR RD (CR 765 A)FROM N JONES LOOPTO AIRPORT ROAD PHASEI
$0
PE TALL
$0 $665,000
$0
$15,420CST
$0
$0
SL
ENV SL $50,000
$0 $0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0$1,600,000
$1,600,000$0
$0
$0
$2,416,913
$10,000
$4,030,000 $0
$0 $0 $0
$0
$0
CST SL $0 $1,398,635 $0 $0$0
$0
$1,470,811
$4,182,959$1,150,149
$0
$0
$4,182,959
$0
PE LF $0 $0$90,000 $0 $0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
4349661
Description: INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT
US 41 AT GARDNERBLVD
16 CST SL $870,555 $0 $0
CST DS $51,400 $0 $0
CS ACSL $390,640 $0 $0
$0 $0Project Total:
4349451
Description: ADD TURN LANE(S)
US 41 AT PORT CHARLOTTE BLVD
17 CST DDR $0 $0 $264,049
PE SL $20,000 $0 $0
$20,000 $0$1,139,496Project Total:
CST SL $0 $0 $845,447
$0
$0$1,312,595
$0
$0
$0
$0
$30,000$0
$0
$0$0
$0
$0$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
-
ADOPTED MAY 7,2018
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8/23/2019 FLDOT OWP - Federal Aid Management; STIP Project Detail and Summaries Online Report
https://fdotewp1.dot.state.fl.us/fmsupportapps/stipamendments/stip.aspx 1/1
STIP Project Detail and Summaries Online ReportSelection Criteria
Current STIP Detail Report Financial Project:434965 1 Related Items Shown
HIGHWAYSItem Number: 434965 1 Project Description: HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75
District: 01 County: CHARLOTTE Type of Work: PD&E/EMO STUDY Project Length: .135MI Fiscal YearPhase / Responsible Agency <2019 2019 2020 2021 2022 >2022 All YearsP D & E / MANAGED BY FDOTFund Code: ACCM - ADVANCE CONSTRUCTION (CM) 460,424 11,638 6,241 478,303
CM - CONGESTION MITIGATION - AQ 1,677,762 17,437 1,695,199Phase: P D & E Totals 2,138,186 29,075 6,241 2,173,502Item: 434965 1 Totals 2,138,186 29,075 6,241 2,173,502
Item Number: 434965 2 Project Description: HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75
District: 01 County: CHARLOTTE Type of Work: ADD LANES & RECONSTRUCT Project Length: .135MI Fiscal YearPhase / Responsible Agency <2019 2019 2020 2021 2022 >2022 All YearsPRELIMINARY ENGINEERING / MANAGED BY FDOTFund Code: ACSL - ADVANCE CONSTRUCTION (SL) 1,614,014 1,614,014
GFSL - GF STPBG <200K<5K (SMALL URB) 2,385,986 2,385,986SL - STP, AREAS <= 200K 19,293 19,293
Phase: PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING Totals 4,019,293 4,019,293
RIGHT OF WAY / MANAGED BY FDOTFund Code: SL - STP, AREAS <= 200K 1,868,752 1,868,752
Item: 434965 2 Totals 4,019,293 1,868,752 5,888,045Project Totals 2,138,186 29,075 4,025,534 1,868,752 8,061,547
HIGHWAYS Totals 2,138,186 29,075 4,025,534 1,868,752 8,061,547Grand Total 2,138,186 29,075 4,025,534 1,868,752 8,061,547
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Social and Economic AppendixContents:NRCS Coordination Documentation
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Farmlands Coordination
Harborview Road
Florida Department of Transportation District 1
Limits of Project: From Melbourne Street to I-75 Charlotte County, Florida
Financial Management Number: 434965-1-22-01 ETDM Number: 5351
The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by FDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. § 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated December 142016 and executed by FHWA and FDOT.
February 2019
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1
Nicole Selly
From: Crockett, Leroy - NRCS, Quincy, FL <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, January 29, 2019 2:11 PM
To: Nicole Selly
Subject: RE: Harborview Road PD&E From Melbourne Street to I-75 - Farmlands CPA 106 Form
and Shapefiles Submittal
Attachments: NRCS-CPA- 106 Harborview Road PD&E Study FDOT - Farmlands.pdf
Just finished. See attached. The Acres of Prime Unique farmland are small and ratings came out the same with rounding
of numbers. Just a slight difference in percent of farmland converted, with any of the alternatives way less than one
percent.
If you have any questions please contact me.
Sincerely
LeRoy Crockett Resource Soil Scientist
Perry Paige Bld suite 305N
1740 S MLK Blvd Tallahassee, FL 32307
Mb: (352) 262-0192
Watch the “Mighty Mini Microbe” trailer.
From: Nicole Selly <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, January 28, 2019 10:29 AM
To: Sullivan, Kevin - NRCS, Gainesville, FL <[email protected]>; Crockett, Leroy - NRCS, Quincy, FL
Subject: RE: Harborview Road PD&E From Melbourne Street to I-75 - Farmlands CPA 106 Form and Shapefiles Submittal
Hello Kevin and Leroy,
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2
Do you have any questions on my FFPA 106 form submittal for Harborview Road from Melbourne Street to I-75? I suspect
you are very busy. Do you have an estimate of when we will get the form back? I reattached the files to this email for
your convenience.
Thanks,
Nicole
Nicole Selly
Sr. Environmental Scientist/Project Manager Email: [email protected] Work: 813.871.5331 Cell: 512.587.8194 201 N. Franklin St., Suite 400, Tampa, FL 33602
From: Robbins, Rick - NRCS, Gainesville, FL <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 16, 2019 7:19 AM
To: Nicole Selly <[email protected]>
Cc: Mark Easley <[email protected]>; Sullivan, Kevin - NRCS, Gainesville, FL
<[email protected]>; Crockett, Leroy - NRCS, Quincy, FL <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Harborview Road PD&E From Melbourne Street to I-75 - Farmlands CPA 106 Form and Shapefiles Submittal
Nicole,
My job responsibilities have shifted and I no longer conduct any FPPA reviews. I have cc’d Leroy Crockett and Kevin
Sullivan for their attention.
Best,
Rick Robbins
NRCS- ACES affiliate
Easements
Gainesville, FL
From: Nicole Selly <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, January 14, 2019 5:24 PM
To: Robbins, Rick - NRCS, Gainesville, FL <[email protected]>
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3
Cc: Mark Easley <[email protected]>
Subject: Harborview Road PD&E From Melbourne Street to I-75 - Farmlands CPA 106 Form and Shapefiles Submittal
Mr. Robbins,
I have completed the CPA 106 form Parts I and III for Harborview Road PD&E From Melbourne Street to I-75
(434965-1-22-01). I included corresponding shapefiles for your review. See the attachment link below my
signature. I have also provided some additional project information below:
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is conducting a Project Development and Environment
(PD&E) study to evaluate the proposed widening of Harborview Road (CR 776) from Melbourne Street
to west of I-75 in Charlotte County, Florida, a distance of 2.3 miles. The purpose of this PD&E study is
to evaluate engineering and environmental data and document information that will aid Charlotte County,
FDOT District One, and the FDOT Office of Environmental Management (OEM) in determining the type,
preliminary design and location of the proposed improvements. The study was conducted in order to meet
the requirements of the FDOT, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other related federal
and state laws, rules and regulations.
The proposed action involves widening Harborview Road from the existing two-lane undivided roadway
to a four-lane divided roadway. This improvement is necessary to provide additional capacity to
accommodate future travel demand generated by the projected population and economic growth in
Charlotte County. Harborview Road is classified as an urban minor arterial from Melbourne Street to west
of I-75.
The project was evaluated through FDOT’s Efficient Transportation Decision Making (ETDM) process
as project #5351. An ETDM Programming Screen Summary Report containing comments from the
Environmental Technical Advisory Team (ETAT) was published on August 28, 2017.
NRCS reported that soils designated as Farmland of Unique Importance are present at all project buffer
widths ranging from 47.3 acres at the 100-foot project buffer level to 229.4 acres at the 500-foot project
buffer level; there are also areas currently used for agricultural production at all buffer widths. NRCS
noted that the project area has undergone land use changes (low density urbanization) since the
Charlotte County soil survey was completed in the early 1980s; therefore, the farmland classifications
assigned to the map units are out-of-date. NRCS stated that a Farmland Conversion Impact Rating Form
[NRCS-CPA-106] may be required for this project.
The 200-foot project buffer consists of 94.07 acres [73.22%] of soils classified as Farmlands of Unique
Importance. While the noted prime farmland soils surround the entire length of the project corridor, the
project area has experienced land use changes. According to the Charlotte County Future Land Use
Map, the area surrounding the western and central portions of the project corridor will continue to
support residential activities; the area surrounding the eastern portion of the project corridor will support
public/institutional and mixed use activities. In addition, the project falls within the North Port - Port
Charlotte urbanized area. A Summary Degree of Effect of Minimal was assigned to the Farmlands issue
in ETDM.
Upon deeper evaluations, the Charlotte County Comprehensive Plan labels the adjacent parcels
402329126001, 402329126002, 402329126003, and 402329126004 as agriculture.
Please let me know if you need more information.
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4
Thank you,
Nicole
Nicole Selly
Sr. Environmental Scientist/Project Manager Email: [email protected] Work: 813.871.5331 Cell: 512.587.8194 201 N. Franklin St., Suite 400, Tampa, FL 33602
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTE: This communication may be privileged and confidential. It should not be disseminated to others. If received in error, please immediately reply that you have received this communication in error and then delete it. Thank you.
This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for the intended recipients. Any
unauthorized interception of this message or the use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the
law and subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have received this message in error,
please notify the sender and delete the email immediately.
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Cultural Resources AppendixContents:SHPO Concurrence Letter
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Dr. Timothy Parsons, Director
Harborview Road, Charlotte, Florida
FPID No.: 434965-1-22-01
October 24, 2018
Page 2 of 3
addition, this survey meets the specifications set forth in Chapter 1A-46, Florida Administrative
Code.
Background research revealed that no archaeological sites were previously recorded within or
adjacent to the project APE and the background research also suggested that portions of the
project had a moderate potential for aboriginal site occurrence. No historic period archaeological
sites were expected. Historical/architectural background research revealed that twelve historic
resources were previously recorded within the historic APE, including eleven buildings
(8CH01338, 8CH01444, 8CH01446, 8CH01451-8CH01456, 8CH01461-8CH01462) and one
linear resource (8CH02053). None of these resources has been evaluated by the State Historic
Preservation Officer (SHPO).
No archaeological sites were identified as a result of the archaeological field survey which
consisted of ground surface reconnaissance and systematic and judgmental excavation of shovel
test pits. A review of Charlotte County property appraiser data indicated the potential for eight
historic resources (50 years of age or older) within the APE. Field survey confirmed the presence
of these resources (8CH02722-8CH02727, 8CH02741, and 8CH02742), all of which are
residential buildings constructed between 1958 and 1961. None of the previously recorded or
newly identified resources is a distinctive embodiment of a type, period, or method or
construction. In addition, background research did not reveal any historic associations with
significant persons and/or events. Therefore, none of the thirteen previously recorded or eight
newly identified historic resources within the APE is considered potentially eligible for the
NRHP, either individually or as part of a historic district.
Based on the results of the background research and field survey, there are no significant historic
or prehistoric archaeological sites or historic resources within the APE. Thus, it appears that the
proposed undertaking will have no effect on any NRHP listed, determined eligible, or potentially
eligible resources within the APE.
The CRAS Report is provided for your review and comment. If you have any questions, please do
not hesitate to call me at 863.519.2495 or [email protected].
Sincerely,
Jonathon A. Bennett
Environmental Project Manager
Enclosures: One original copy of the CRAS (August 2017), one CRAS Technical Memo for
Proposed Pond Sites (March 2018); Twenty-one FMSF forms; Two Completed Survey Logs
CC: Jeffrey Jacquin AIM
Marion Almy, ACI
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Natural Resources AppendixContents:USFWS CoordinationNMFS Essential Fish Habitat CorrespondenceSWFWMD CoordinationUSEPA CoordinationFWC Coordination
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Bennett, Jonathon
From: Wrublik, John <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, October 11, 2019 6:35 AM
To: Bennett, Jonathon
Cc: Andrews, Steven; Jeffrey Jacquin; Selly, Nicole
Subject: Re: [EXTERNAL] RE: 434965-1 Haborview Road from Melbourne Street to I-75
Jonathon, yes, the commitment indicated would be acceptable to the Service.
John
John M. WrublikU.S. Fish and Wildlife Service1339 20th StreetVero Beach, Florida 32960Office: (772) 469-4282Fax: (772) 562-4288email: [email protected]
NOTE: This email correspondence and any attachments to and from this sender is subject to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and may be disclosed to third parties.
On Thu, Oct 10, 2019 at 2:52 PM Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]> wrote:
Mr. Wrublik,
Good afternoon, as discussed, would you accept the project commitment placed into the NRE and Environmental Document to the effect of initiating consultation for the Florida Bonneted Bat and remainder species during the design phase. Due to the pending 2019 FBB survey protocol update, expiration of survey by design, and potential of duplicating efforts for surveys in PD&E and Design. A brief written response would be appreciated for our project documentation.
Thank you,
Jonathon A. Bennett
Environmental Project Manager
Florida Department of Transportation District One
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801 North Broadway Avenue
Bartow, Florida 33830
Office – (863) 519-2495
From: Wrublik, John [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, February 21, 2019 3:18 PM To: Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]> Cc: Jeffrey Jacquin <[email protected]>; Andrews, Steven <[email protected]>; Nicole Selly <[email protected]>; [email protected]: Re: [EXTERNAL] RE: 434965-1 Haborview Road from Melbourne Street to I-75
Jonathon, I just thought of something related to waiting to complete consultation for the FBB during permitting process. I was recently told by management that we are not supposed to provide concurrences for only some of the determinations for Federally listed species that made by the action agency (in this case FDOT) for a project. In other words, for this project I am supposed to wait to provide concurreces for all the other species you made "may affect, not likely to adversely affect" determinations for, until I get the results of the FBB survey and can I provide either a concurrence or a biological opinion for that species. They don't want us doing partial consulttions. So the result of this is that the concurrences for the other species, and what we decide to do for the FBB based on the results of the acoustic survey (concurrence or BO), would not be provided until the time that you provided the results of the FBB acoustic survey (i,.e during permitting).. I know that we did partial consultations in the past, but now we are told that this was not correct. Let me know if you have any questions.
John
John M. Wrublik
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
1339 20th Street
Vero Beach, Florida 32960
Office: (772) 469-4282
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Fax: (772) 562-4288
email: [email protected]
NOTE: This email correspondence and any attachments to and from this sender is subject to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and may be disclosed to third parties.
On Thu, Feb 21, 2019 at 2:47 PM Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]> wrote:
Mr. Wrublik,
FDOT is open to changing the effects determination for the below mentions species, in addition to our phone conversation, where we will create a project commitment to reinitiate informal consultation during design prior to permitting for the FBB. We will make an NRE addendum to address these concerns and distribute when it is completed.
Thank you,
Jonathon A. Bennett
Environmental Project Manager
Florida Department of Transportation District One
801 North Broadway Avenue
Bartow, Florida 33830
Office – (863) 519-2495
Main – (863) 519-2300
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From: Wrublik, John <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, February 21, 2019 7:41 AM To: Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]> Subject: Haborview Road from Melbourne Street to I-75
EXTERNAL SENDER: Use caution with links and attachments.
I am reviewing your consultation request for the Harborview Road from Melbourne Street to Interstate 75 project. You have determined that the project may affect, but is not likely to adversely (MANLAA) affect the following species:
American crocodile
Crested caracara
Florida scrub-jay
Federally listed sea turtles (Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Green Sea Turtle, Leatherback
Sea Turtle, and Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle).
The Service finds that these species will not be affected by the project. Therefore, I request that the FDOT change their determinations for these species from MANLAA to no effect. The reason for this request is that the Service has received a great deal of scrutiny recently for providing concurrences for MANLAA determinations when they are not warranted, and the species is not being affected by the project. If you are willing to change your determination for these species to no effect, you can do so by return email. If you have any questions regarding this request, please let me know.
Thanks
John
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John M. Wrublik
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
1339 20th Street
Vero Beach, Florida 32960
Office: (772) 469-4282
Fax: (772) 562-4288
email: [email protected]
NOTE: This email correspondence and any attachments to and from this sender is subject to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and may be disclosed to third parties.
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Nicole Selly
From: David Rydene - NOAA Federal <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, March 15, 2019 9:34 AM
To: Bennett, Jonathon
Subject: Re: 434965-1 HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75 NMFS NRE
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Hi Jonathon,
NMFS accepts the commitment proposed by the Florida Department of Transportation District 1 to conduct the
Endangered Species Act (ESA) Section 7 formal consultation for smalltooth sawfish and its designated critical habitat
during the design phase of the Harborview Road project, as well as the Section 7 consultation for ESA-listed sea turtles
that might be affected.
Thank you, Dave Rydene
On Wed, Mar 13, 2019 at 2:38 PM Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]> wrote:
David,
As discussed on the phone, will you accept a project commitment placed into the NRE and the Environmental
Document to the effect of initiating formal consultation for the Smalltooth Sawfish during the design phase of the
project? Understanding that you would complete the NMFS consultation for the other protected species during this
time as well. A brief written response would be appreciated for our project documentation.
Thank you,
Jonathon A. Bennett
Environmental Project Manager
Florida Department of Transportation District One
801 North Broadway Avenue
Bartow, Florida 33830
Office – (863) 519-2495
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From: David Rydene - NOAA Federal [mailto:[email protected]]
Sent: Tuesday, March 5, 2019 8:55 AM
To: Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]>
Cc: Jeffrey Jacquin <[email protected]>; [email protected]; Nicole Selly
<[email protected]>; Andrews, Steven <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: 434965-1 HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75 NMFS NRE
Hi Folks,
After speaking to our sawfish expert here in the St. Pete office it looks like I will have to do this consultation as a formal
(although it's a fairly minor one). This is due to the loss of shoreline mangroves in sawfish critical habitat. We base the
analysis on the loss of linear feet of shoreline mangroves, so I will need an estimate of the expected linear foot loss of
mangroves at the shoreline to move forward.
Also, I would like to get a rough estimate of the maximum number of steel sheet piles that might be installed and the
maximum number of hours of driving that might occur in a day. Finally, how long is the project expected to take?
Thanks, Dave
On Mon, Mar 4, 2019 at 10:22 AM David Rydene - NOAA Federal <[email protected]> wrote:
Hi Jonathon,
I have looked over the responses to my questions, and while it might seem that the vibratory installation of steel sheet
piles is just as noisy as impact driving based on noise in the air, in reality the in-water noise levels from vibratory
driving are quite a bit lower than impact driving. Peak sound pressure levels from vibratory driving are about 190 dB
vs. 220 dB for impact driving, sound exposure levels (SEL) are about 175 dB for vibratory vs. 194 dB for impact, and
root mean square sound pressure levels are 175 dB for vibratory vs. 194 dB for impact driving. So, under the vibratory
installation scenario you end up with no chance of injury from peak levels or cumulative SEL exposure, and only small
behavioral disturbance zones. Under the impact installation scenario you would have a peak pressure injury zone with
a radius of 30 feet, a cumulative SEL injury zone of at least 730 feet, and a behavioral disturbance zone of 13,000 feet
for sawfish. The problem is that the project area is designated critical habitat for smalltooth sawfish and on top of
that is a known "hot spot" nursery area for juvenile sawfish.
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I would suggest that I write the consultation based on vibratory installation of steel sheet piles with the caveat that if
the contractor really needs to put them in with an impact hammer that the ESA Section 7 consultation would need to
be reinitiated. Let me know if you are amenable to that approach.
Thanks, Dave
On Wed, Feb 27, 2019 at 2:19 PM Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]> wrote:
Mr. Rydene,
In response to your questions:
Comment 1: I am assuming that the areas where the culverts will be replaced will be not be accessible
to NMFS ESA species (sawfish and sea turtles) during demolition and construction work because they
will be blocked off by turbidity curtains or other barriers. Is that correct?
Response: All construction areas will be isolated from areas accessible to NMFS ESA species by
turbidity curtains and other sediment control devices. This will be necessary in order to maintain
turbidity during construction activities.
Comment 2: I am assuming that if sheet pile walls are needed, that the sheet piles will be vibrated in,
rather than impact driven (vibratory would be our strong preference due to in-water noise issues). Is
that correct?
Response: While almost all sheet pile walls are installed using vibratory methods, using vibration
still creates extensive noise and is not a significant advantage over installation using pile driving. As
an alternative, we would recommend that a condition be added that requires the construction
contractor to utilize “ramp-up” construction if either vibration or pile driving is used to install sheet
piles. In this way, initial noise levels would be minimized and would allow protected species to move
out of the area.
Comment 3: Is any loss of red mangroves anticipated? If so, how many square feet would be lost?
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Response: There are five cross drains that are proposed to be extended as part of the
project. While the existing channels associated with many of these cross drains are steep and
vegetated with Brazilian pepper, there will be minor impacts to mangroves at two locations. The
extension of an existing 6’ x 5’ box culvert located east of Deleon Drive and an existing 10’ x 7’ box
culvert located east of Purdy Drive and associated with Peace Creek will result in approximately
1,700 square feet (0.04 acres) of mangroves impacts. These mangroves are a mix of red and black
mangroves. It should be noted that until wetland boundaries are established and surveyed, and
design plans are developed, an accurate estimate of mangrove impacts cannot be done.
Comment 4: Will water depths immediately adjacent to the culvert sites be altered or will depths stay
the same as it is now? Any deepening could be an issue because one of the sawfish critical habitat
physical and biological features is euryhaline areas with depths of -3 feet or less (i.e., shallow areas
where juveniles hang out).
Response: Upstream and downstream channel elevations will not be altered during project
construction.
Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.
Thank you,
Jonathon A. Bennett
Environmental Project Manager
Florida Department of Transportation District One
801 North Broadway Avenue
Bartow, Florida 33830
Office – (863) 519-2495
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From: David Rydene - NOAA Federal [mailto:[email protected]]
Sent: Friday, February 22, 2019 11:14 AM
To: Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: 434965-1 HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75 NMFS NRE
Hi Jonathon,
I looked over the information in your last email and I have a few more questions.
1) I am assuming that the areas where the culverts will be replaced will be not be accessible to NMFS ESA species
(sawfish and sea turtles) during demolition and construction work because they will be blocked off by turbidity
curtains or other barriers. Is that correct?
2) I am assuming that if sheet pile walls are needed, that the sheet piles will be vibrated in, rather than impact driven
(vibratory would be our strong preference due to in-water noise issues). Is that correct?
3) Is any loss of red mangroves anticipated? If so, how many square feet would be lost?
4) Will water depths immediately adjacent to the culvert sites be altered or will depths stay the same as it is
now? Any deepening could be an issue because one of the sawfish critical habitat physical and biological features is
euryhaline areas with depths of -3 feet or less (i.e., shallow areas where juveniles hang out).
Thanks, Dave
On Wed, Feb 20, 2019 at 10:25 AM Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]> wrote:
Mr. Rydene,
Good morning, as requested:
Anticipated Culvert Construction Methods
One of two alternative methods will likely be used in the construction of culverts.
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• If the culverts are cast in place, heavy machinery such as excavators, backhoes, and small cranes will be
used to excavate the construction area. Once form have been constructed, cement trucks will be used to fill
the forms. Heavy machinery will then be used to fill in around the cast in place culvert.
• If precast culvert segments are used, heavy machinery such as excavators, backhoes and small cranes will be
used to excavate the construction area. Precast culvert segments will then be lifted into place using larger
cranes. Heavy machinery will then be used to fill in around the precast culvert.
Demolition of existing culverts can be done using a variety of methods, including sawcuts, jack hammers, and other
similar equipment.
Depending on water conditions, demolition and construction activities may also require the use of sheet pile walls
and the pumping of water around the work site.
Anticipated Mitigative Techniques During Construction
To minimize potential impacts to federal listed species, the following conditions will be implemented during the
removal of existing and construction of new box culverts:
• No blasting will occur as part of project construction.
• Sediment and erosion control screens and curtains will be placed in a manner that will avoid and minimize
potential entrapment by wildlife.
• If sawcuts or jack hammers are used in the removal of the existing box culverts, a ramp-up noise method
will be implemented during construction. This will include short low intensity noise and vibration during
initial removal, building to higher intensity noise and vibration.
• The contractor will be limited to daylight hours for all in-water work associated with the removal of existing
and the construction of new box culverts.
• The contractor will be required to implement the latest Standard Manatee Conditions for In-water Work.
• The contractor will be required to implement the latest Sea Turtle & Smalltooth Sawfish Construction
Conditions.
Please let me know if you have any additional comments or questions, we appreciate your review.
Thank you,
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Jonathon A. Bennett
Environmental Project Manager
Florida Department of Transportation District One
801 North Broadway Avenue
Bartow, Florida 33830
Office – (863) 519-2495
Main – (863) 519-2300
From: David Rydene - NOAA Federal <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2019 10:33 AM
To: Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: 434965-1 HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75 NMFS NRE
EXTERNAL SENDER: Use caution with links and attachments.
Hi Jonathon,
I have reviewed the Natural Resource Evaluation that is part of the Project Development and Environment Study for
the proposed widening of Harborview Rd (CR 776) from Melbourne Street to west of I-75 in Charlotte County,
Florida (Financial Management Number 434965-1-22-01; ETDM 5351). The analyses of wetland impacts appears to
be accurate, and with appropriate compensatory mitigation, impacts to essential fish habitat (particularly
mangroves) can be offset.
To conduct an Endangered Species Act Section 7 consultation (for smalltooth sawfish and sea turtles) I will need
additional information regarding how construction activities will accomplished at any portions of the project
crossing tidally-influenced waterways (i.e., creeks connecting to the estuarine parts of the Peace River and Charlotte
Harbor). I am assuming that these activities will only involve culvert replacements/extensions, and that no pile
driving will be required. Can you please provide a general description of the project's anticipated demolition and
construction activities, especially those referenced above.
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Thanks, Dave
On Thu, Feb 7, 2019 at 10:37 AM Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]> wrote:
Mr. Rydene,
Please find a Transmittal Letter and Natural Resource Evaluation (NRE) attached for Harborview Road from
Melbourne Road to Interstate 75 PD&E attached. The Florida Department of Transportation appreciates your
involvement with this project and respectfully requests your review comments or written concurrence with the
findings and effect determinations presented in the NRE within 30 days. If you have any questions or require any
additional information, please contact me.
Thank you,
Jonathon A. Bennett
Environmental Project Manager
Florida Department of Transportation District One
801 North Broadway Avenue
Bartow, Florida 33830
Office – (863) 519-2495
Main – (863) 519-2300
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--
David Rydene, Ph.D.
Fish Biologist
National Marine Fisheries Service
Habitat Conservation Division
263 13th Avenue South
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Office (727) 824-5379
Cell (813) 992-5730
Fax (727) 824-5300
--
David Rydene, Ph.D.
Fish Biologist
National Marine Fisheries Service
Habitat Conservation Division
263 13th Avenue South
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Office (727) 824-5379
Cell (813) 992-5730
Fax (727) 824-5300
--
David Rydene, Ph.D.
Fish Biologist
National Marine Fisheries Service
Habitat Conservation Division
263 13th Avenue South
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Office (727) 824-5379
Cell (813) 992-5730
Fax (727) 824-5300
--
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David Rydene, Ph.D.
Fish Biologist
National Marine Fisheries Service
Habitat Conservation Division
263 13th Avenue South
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Office (727) 824-5379
Cell (813) 992-5730
Fax (727) 824-5300
--
David Rydene, Ph.D.
Fish Biologist
National Marine Fisheries Service
Habitat Conservation Division
263 13th Avenue South
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Office (727) 824-5379
Cell (813) 992-5730
Fax (727) 824-5300
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Bennett, Jonathon
From: Monte Ritter <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 7, 2019 8:02 AM
To: Bennett, Jonathon
Cc: Andrews, Steven; Jeffrey Jacquin; Chaz LaRiche
Subject: RE: 434965-1 HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75 SWFWMD NRE
EXTERNAL SENDER: Use caution with links and attachments.
Mr. Bennett,
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) has reviewed the Natural Resources Evaluation (NRE) for the referenced project and offer the following comments:
1) The information contained within the ETDM# 5351 report is still consistent with the current status of the roadway widening project. There are no additional wetland mitigation banks available within this watershed other than what is reported within ETDM# 5351.
2) The documentation within this NRE addresses the reduction and elimination of wetland impacts and should be included with the permit application since that is a requirement for permit issuance.
3) The NRE includes completed UMAMS Part 1 and 2 for the proposed wetland impacts which will need to be field verified with the permit application reviewer during the permitting process. This response to the NRE does not constitute an agreement with the proposed scores.
4) The UMAMs included with the NRE addresses functional loss associated with impacts to roadside ditches, which may not need to be assessed for functional loss unless the ditch is providing habitat for threatened or endangered species. Please note that impacts to creeks and tributaries will need to assessed for the functional loss as they are natural systems.
5) Wetland lines will need to be field verified as either part of the permit application process or through a formal wetland delineation prior to the submittal of the permit application for the roadway widening.
6) Please include the SSL title determination worksheets with the permit application to save District staff time during the permitting process.
Feel free to contact me, or Chaz LaRiche at the above email address, if you have any questions.
Thank you,
Monte G. Ritter, P.E. Chief Professional Engineer Environmental Resource Permit Bureau Regulation Division Southwest Florida Water Management District 2379 Broad Street Brooksville, FL 34604 352-796-7211 x 4351
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800-423-1476 x 4351 (Florida only) [email protected]
From: Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, February 07, 2019 10:20 AM To: Monte Ritter <[email protected]> Cc: Andrews, Steven <[email protected]>; Jeffrey Jacquin <[email protected]> Subject: 434965-1 HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75 SWFWMD NRE
Mr. Ritter,
Please find a Transmittal Letter and Natural Resource Evaluation (NRE) attached for Harborview Road from Melbourne Road to Interstate 75 PD&E attached. The Florida Department of Transportation appreciates your involvement with this project and respectfully requests your review comments or written concurrence with the findings and effect determinations presented in the NRE within 30 days. If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact me.
Thank you,
Jonathon A. Bennett Environmental Project Manager Florida Department of Transportation District One 801 North Broadway Avenue Bartow, Florida 33830 Office – (863) 519-2495 Main – (863) 519-2300 [email protected]
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Bennett, Jonathon
From: White, Roshanna <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 4, 2019 7:07 AM
To: Bennett, Jonathon
Cc: Andrews, Steven; Jeffrey Jacquin; Militscher, Chris; Buskey, Traci P.
Subject: Re: 434965-1 HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75 USEPA NRE
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
EXTERNAL SENDER: Use caution with links and attachments.
Dear Mr. Bennett,
The EPA reviewed the Natural Resource Evaluation (NRE) for the widening of Harborview Road (CR-776) from Melbourne Street to west of I-75 in Charlotte County. We did not identify any significant environmental impacts from the proposed project. As a general recommendation, we request that FDOT consult with the USFWS/NMFS in regard to FDOT’s concern for loss of nesting habitat for endangered Leatherback and Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles to determine the impact of that lost on these species. It is stated in the NRE that FDOT determined the proposed project “may effect, but is not likely to adversely effect” because none of these species were observed during field reviews and FDOT will implement NOAA approved: Sea Turtle and Smalltooth Sawfish Construction conditions (revised 2006) to minimize potential adverse impacts during construction. However, the aforementioned document does not incorporate mitigation or compensation for the loss of habitat for these endangered species.
The EPA requests future project revisions or updates of environmental documents for the proposed project. If you questions in regards to this comment, please contact me at the information below.
Sincerely,
Roshanna White │Life Scientist │NEPA Program OfficeU.S. Environmental Protection Agency│Region IV61 Forsyth Street SW │Atlanta, GA 30303Voice: 404-562-9035 │Email: [email protected]
From: Bennett, Jonathon <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, February 7, 2019 10:18:51 AM To: White, Roshanna Cc: Andrews, Steven; Jeffrey Jacquin Subject: 434965-1 HARBORVIEW ROAD FROM MELBOURNE RD TO I-75 USEPA NRE
Ms. White,
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Please find a Transmittal Letter and Natural Resource Evaluation (NRE) attached for Harborview Road from Melbourne Road to Interstate 75, Categorical Exclusion Type II PD&E attached. The Florida Department of Transportation appreciates your involvement with this project and respectfully requests your review comments or written concurrence with the findings and effect determinations presented in the NRE within 30 days. If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact me.
Thank you,
Jonathon A. BennettEnvironmental Project ManagerFlorida Department of Transportation District One801 North Broadway AvenueBartow, Florida 33830Office – (863) 519-2495Main – (863) [email protected]
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Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Commissioners
Robert A. Spottswood
Chairman
Key West
Michael W. Sole
Vice Chairman
Tequesta
Joshua Kellam
Palm Beach Gardens
Gary Lester
Oxford
Gary Nicklaus
Jupiter
Sonya Rood
St. Augustine
Office of the
Executive Director
Eric Sutton
Executive Director Thomas H. Eason, Ph.D.
Assistant Executive Director Jennifer Fitzwater
Chief of Staff
850-487-3796
850-921-5786 FAX
Managing fish and wildlife
resources for their long-term
well-being and the benefit
of people.
620 South Meridian Street
Tallahassee, Florida
32399-1600
Voice: 850-488-4676
Hearing/speech-impaired:
800-955-8771 (T)
800 955-8770 (V)
MyFWC.com
March 6, 2019
Jonathon A. Bennett
Environmental Project Manager
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District 1
801 N. Broadway Avenue
Bartow, FL 33830
Re: Harborview Road from Melbourne Road to I-75, Charlotte County, Natural Resources
Evaluation Report
Dear Mr. Bennett:
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) staff has reviewed the Natural
Resources Evaluation Report (NRE) for the above-referenced project. The NRE was prepared as
part of the Project Development and Environment Study for the proposed project. In June 2017
we reviewed this project via the Efficient Transportation Decision Making (ETDM) process as
ETDM 5351, and our comments are included in the ETDM Environmental Screening Tool. We
provide the following comments and recommendations for your consideration in accordance with
Chapter 379, Florida Statutes and Rule 68A-27, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.).
Project Description
The project involves the widening of Harborview Road (CR 776) from two lanes to four lanes
from Melbourne Road to west of I-75, a distance of approximately 2.3 miles, and including paved
shoulders, bike lanes, sidewalks, and tidal creek bridge improvements. After assessment of three
alternative alignments, the North Alignment, South Alignment, and Optimized Alignment, the
Optimized Alignment was selected as the preferred alternative. Although much of the project is
bordered by low and medium density residential development, a significant area of natural upland
and wetland habitat is found along the east end of the project site. Nearly all the project corridor
is within one-half mile of Charlotte Harbor near the mouth of the Peace River.
Potentially Affected Resources
The NRE evaluated potential project impacts to 29 wildlife species classified under the
Endangered Species Act as Federally Endangered (FE) or Threatened (FT), or by the State of
Florida as Threatened (ST). Listed species were evaluated based on range and potential
appropriate habitat or because the project is within a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
Consultation Area. Included were: Gulf sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus desotoi, FT), smalltooth
sawfish (Pristis pectinata, FE), leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea, FE), loggerhead
sea turtle (Caretta caretta, FT), green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas, FT), Kemp's ridley sea turtle
(Lepidochelys kempii, FE), eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon corais couperi, FT), American
crocodile (Crocodylus acutus, FT), American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis, FT based on
similarity of appearance to American crocodile), Audubon’s crested caracara (Polyborus plancus
audubonii, FT), Everglade snail kite (Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus, FE), Florida scrub-jay
(Aphelocoma coerulescens, FT), red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis, FE), wood stork
(Mycteria americana, FT), piping plover (Charadrius melodus, FT), Florida bonneted bat
(Eumops floridanus, FE), Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus, FT), gopher tortoise (Gopherus
polyphemus, ST), Florida pine snake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitus, ST), American
oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus, ST), black skimmer (Rynchops niger, ST), least tern
(Sternula antillarum, ST), Florida burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia floridana, ST),
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Jonathon Bennett
Page 2
March 6, 2019
southeastern American kestrel (Falco sparverius paulus, ST), Florida sandhill crane (Antigone
canadensis pratensis, ST), snowy plover (Charadrius nivosus, ST), little blue heron (Egretta
caerulea, ST), tricolored heron (Egretta tricolor, ST), and roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja, ST).
Also evaluated were: the bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), which was delisted by state and
federal agencies, but remains protected under state rule in Section 68A-16.002, F.A.C., and by the
federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668-668d); the osprey (Pandion
haliaetus), which is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703-712); the
Florida black bear (Ursus americanus floridanus), which is protected in Section 68A-4.009,
F.A.C.; and the southern fox squirrel (Sciurus niger niger), reclassified from Sherman’s fox
squirrel (Sciurus niger shermani), and removed from Florida’s threatened species list.
Comments and Recommendations
Due to the lack of both appropriate habitat and observation during on-site surveys, project
biologists made a finding of “no effect” for the Gulf sturgeon and Everglade snail kite, and “no
effect anticipated” for the Florida burrowing owl. For the other federally listed species, the
biologist’s findings were “may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect”. The other state-listed
species were given a “no adverse effect anticipated” determination. With adherence to the project
commitments, we agree with these determinations.
We support the project commitments for protected species, which include the following.
1. The FDOT will perform updated wildlife surveys for the species discussed in the NRE
and other wildlife species during the project design phase to ascertain the involvement, if
any, of listed or protected species.
2. The FDOT will coordinate further with the FWC during the project design phase for
impacts associated with state-listed wildlife species.
3. Impacts to suitable foraging habitat for the federally-protected wood stork will be
mitigated through the purchase of credits from a USFWS-approved mitigation bank
pursuant to Section 373.4137, F.S., or as otherwise agreed to by the FDOT and the
appropriate regulatory agencies.
4. The Standard Protection Measures for the Eastern Indigo Snake will be followed during
construction.
5. The National Marine Fisheries Service Sea Turtle and Smalltooth Sawfish Construction
Conditions will be implemented to assure that sea turtles and smalltooth sawfish will not
be adversely impacted by the project.
6. The most current version of the FWC Standard Manatee Conditions for In-Water Work
will be implemented to assure that manatees will not be adversely impacted by the
project. Further coordination with FWC may be necessary to determine specific manatee
protection measures for this project. For technical assistance and coordination on
manatees and sea turtles, please contact the FWC Imperiled Species Management Section
in Tallahassee at [email protected] or (850) 922-4330.
7. For gopher tortoise burrows that cannot be avoided, the tortoises will be relocated per
current FWC guidelines. For gopher tortoise survey methodology and permitting
guidance, we recommend that FDOT refer to the FWC's Gopher Tortoise Permitting
Guidelines (Revised January 2017) at (http://www.myfwc.com/license/wildlife/gopher-
tortoise-permits/).
8. The FDOT will resurvey the project limits for the presence of bald eagle nests prior to
construction commencement. If a bald eagle nest is identified within the 660-foot
construction buffer zone of the project area, the FDOT will coordinate with the USFWS
(as applicable) to secure all necessary approvals regarding this species prior to project
construction.
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Jonathon Bennett
Page 3
March 6, 2019
9. The FDOT will resurvey the project limits for the presence of active osprey nests prior to
construction commencement. If an active osprey nest is identified within the project
area, the FDOT will coordinate with the FWC (as applicable) to secure all necessary
approvals regarding this species prior to project construction.
10. Wetland impacts resulting from construction of this project will be mitigated pursuant to
Section 373.4137, F.S., to satisfy all mitigation requirements of Part IV of Chapter 373,
F.S., and 33 U.S.C. §1344. Compensatory mitigation for this project will be completed
using mitigation banks and any other mitigation options that satisfy state and federal
requirements.
Thank you for the opportunity to review the NRE for the Harborview Road from Melbourne
Road to I-75 project in Charlotte County. If you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to
contact our office at [email protected]. If you have specific
technical questions regarding the content of this letter, contact Brian Barnett at (772) 579-9746 or
Sincerely,
Fritz Wettstein
Land Use Planning Program Administrator
Office of Conservation Planning Services
FW/bb
ENV 1-13-2
Harborview Rd from Melbourne Rd to I-75 NRE_38143_03062019
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Public Involvement AppendixContents:Public Hearing TranscriptPublic Hearing Certification Documentation
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· · · · ·IN RE:· HARBORVIEW ROAD PD&E STUDY
· · · · · ·FROM MELBOURNE STREET TO I-75
· · · · · · · · ·CHARLOTTE COUNTY
· · · · · · · · · PUBLIC MEETING
__________________________________________________________
· · · · · DATE TAKEN:· · ·March 14, 2019
· · · · · TIME TAKEN:· · ·5:00 p.m. - 5:56 p.m.
· · · · · PLACE TAKEN:· · 25550 Harborview Road· · · · · · · · · · · · · Port Charlotte, Florida
· · · · · REPORTER:· · · ·Maryanne Wagner, RPR, FPR· · · · · · · · · · · · · Court Reporter
· · · · · MODERATOR:· · · Steven A. Andrews· · · · · · · · · · · · · Project Manager· · · · · · · · · · · · · FDOT
_________________________________________________________
· · · · · · ·FIRST CHOICE REPORTING & VIDEO SERVICE
· · · · · · · · · · · ·407.830.9044· · · · · · · · · · FAX:· 407.767.8166
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·1· · · · · ·(Whereupon, the following statement was put on
·2· the record before the presentation by FDOT.)
·3· · · · · ·DR. SWING:· We get heavy rains, all the rains in
·4· · · the neighborhood, puddles in my front yard.· My
·5· · · question, if you put this road in, are we going to get
·6· · · worse flooding in my front yard?
·7· · · · · ·That's it.
·8· · · · · ·Why do you need a 30-foot grassy strip to make
·9· · · this road wider?· I don't know any place in Port
10· · · Charlotte that has a 30-foot grassy strip on four lane
11· · · roads.· So why does this have to be the only road in
12· · · Port Charlotte to have a 30-foot grassy strip?· My
13· · · guess is so Sunseeker can make more money, it makes
14· · · them more attractive approach to the Sunseeker Resort
15· · · plan.
16· · · · · ·MR. WESER:· (Via Written Questions)
17· · · · · ·Will the project be done through a general
18· · · contractor, or construction management?
19· · · · · ·How much will be done in-house?
20· · · · · ·Will bonds be required of contractors and
21· · · subcontractors?
22· · · · · ·Is there any provision requiring the use of local
23· · · subcontractors?
24· · · · · ·Will design, ROW acquisition and wetland
25· · · mitigation proceed without construction funding
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·1· ·approval?
·2· · · · How does the per mile cost compare to other
·3· ·projects?
·4· · · · (End of comments on record before meeting.)
·5· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Good evening.
·6· · · · The Florida Department of Transportation would
·7· ·like to welcome you to the public hearing for the
·8· ·project development and environment, or PD&E study for
·9· ·Harborview Road from Melbourne Street to I-75 in
10· ·Charlotte County.
11· · · · I am Steven Andrews.· I am the District One
12· ·project manager for the Florida Department of
13· ·Transportation or FDOT.· Here with me tonight are
14· ·representatives from FDOT, and members of the
15· ·consulting project team.
16· · · · At this time we would like to recognize any
17· ·Federal, State, County, or City officials who may be
18· ·present tonight.· Are there any officials that would
19· ·like to be recognized?
20· · · · Okay.
21· · · · The purpose of the public hearing is to share
22· ·information with the general public about the proposed
23· ·improvement, its conceptual design, and potential
24· ·beneficial and adverse social, economic and
25· ·environmental impacts upon the community.· The public
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·1· ·hearing also serves as an official forum providing an
·2· ·opportunity for members of the public to express their
·3· ·opinions regarding the project.· Public participation
·4· ·at that hearing is encouraged and solicited without
·5· ·regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex,
·6· ·religion, disability or family status.
·7· · · · There are three primary components to tonight's
·8· ·hearing.· First, the open house where you are invited
·9· ·to view the project displays, to speak directly with
10· ·the project team and provide your comments in writing
11· ·or to the Court Reporter.
12· · · · Second, the video presentation will explain the
13· ·project purpose and need, study alternatives,
14· ·potential impacts, both beneficial and adverse, and
15· ·proposed methods to mitigate adverse project impacts.
16· · · · Third, a formal comment period following the
17· ·preparation, where you will have the opportunity to
18· ·provide oral statements at the microphone or provide
19· ·your comments to directly to the Court Reporter, or in
20· ·writing.
21· · · · Now I will read the following information for the
22· ·record.
23· · · · This public hearing is being conducted by the
24· ·Florida Department of Transportation.· It is being
25· ·held at the Charlotte County-Punta Gorda MPO on
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·1· ·Thursday, March 14, 2019 at 5:00 p.m., regarding the
·2· ·following project.
·3· · · · Financial Project I.D. number 434965-1-22-01.
·4· · · · This project is described as the evaluation of
·5· ·roadway improvements along Harborview Road from
·6· ·Melbourne Street to I-75 in Charlotte County.
·7· · · · We are here tonight to present to you and explain
·8· ·the engineering and environmental studies conducted to
·9· ·date.· Also, we are here to give you an opportunity to
10· ·publicly and officially comment on the project.
11· · · · We bring proposed improvements to a public
12· ·hearing so we can hear your views and comments.· We
13· ·want to hear from people with local knowledge, and we
14· ·want to hear what you like and what you don't like
15· ·about the proposed improvements.
16· · · · It is important that interested people like you
17· ·have an opportunity to become fully aware of this
18· ·project.· It is important that you express your views
19· ·at this stage of the project, when the flexibility
20· ·still exists to incorporate those views into the study
21· ·documents.· Final decisions are made using these
22· ·documents.
23· · · · When you arrived this evening you were offered a
24· ·handout containing information about the proposed
25· ·project and a comment sheet.· If you did not receive
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·1· ·them, please pick up copies at the registration table
·2· ·where you signed in.
·3· · · · If you choose not to speak this evening, but you
·4· ·would like to make comments for the record, you can
·5· ·complete the comment sheet tonight and drop it into
·6· ·the comment box.· Also, the public hearing comment
·7· ·period will remain open until March 25, 2019.· Anyone
·8· ·wishing to make comments, which will become a part of
·9· ·the official transcript of the hearing, has until this
10· ·date to write the Department.· Those comments will be
11· ·the same as if you gave your comments at the
12· ·microphone this evening.· You may also send your
13· ·comments by e-mail to the address listed on the poster
14· ·board or submit a comment using project website listed
15· ·on your handout.
16· · · · After tonight's hearing, the Department will
17· ·compile your comments, and together with the
18· ·engineering and environmental work that has been done,
19· ·make a final recommendation that we will submit to the
20· ·FDOT Office of Environmental Management for approval.
21· ·We will publish the approval of the preferred
22· ·alternative in the Charlotte Sun Newspaper in
23· ·Charlotte County, and post it the on the project
24· ·website.
25· · · · We would now begin the video presentation.
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·1· · · · (Video played.)
·2· · · · "Welcome to the Florida Department of
·3· ·Transportation's public hearing for the Harborview
·4· ·Road Project Development and Environment, or PD&E
·5· ·study.· We appreciate your attendance and
·6· ·participation.· At tonight's hearing, you will have
·7· ·the opportunity to ask questions and offer comments
·8· ·about the proposed improvements to Harborview Road,
·9· ·also called County Road 776 from Melbourne Street to
10· ·Interstate 75 in Charlotte County.
11· · · · The environmental review, consultation, and other
12· ·actions required by applicable federal environmental
13· ·laws for this project are being, or have been, carried
14· ·out by the Florida Department of Transportation, of
15· ·FDOT, pursuant to 23 United States Code, Section 327
16· ·and a Memorandum of Understanding dated December 14,
17· ·2016 and executed by the Federal Highway
18· ·Administration and FDOT.
19· · · · The objectives of the PD&E study are to evaluate
20· ·and document engineering and environmental
21· ·considerations that will aid Charlotte County, FDOT
22· ·District One, and the FDOT Office of Environmental
23· ·Management, or OEM, in determining the type and
24· ·location of necessary improvements to Harborview Road.
25· ·This PD&E study is being conducted and will be
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·1· ·completed according to requirements of the National
·2· ·Environmental Policy Act of 1969, which will qualify
·3· ·future phases of this project for federal funding.
·4· · · · The study begins at Melbourne Street and extends
·5· ·2.3 miles to Interstate 75.· The Department proposes
·6· ·to widen this segment of Harborview Road from two
·7· ·lanes to four lanes to correct substandard design
·8· ·elements of the existing roadway and to accommodate
·9· ·increased traffic demand, including truck traffic,
10· ·generated by projected growth in Charlotte County.
11· ·FDOT anticipates this project will also enhance safety
12· ·along the project corridor; improve emergency
13· ·evacuation; and improve connectivity between U.S. 41
14· ·and Interstate 75.· The Charlotte County-Punta Gorda
15· ·Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) identifies
16· ·this project in their 2040 Long Range Transportation
17· ·Plan Cost Feasible Plan.· Traffic volumes within the
18· ·project limits are projected to increase from the
19· ·current volume of 7,800 to 8,500 vehicles a day within
20· ·the corridor to 19,000 to 28,000 vehicles per day by
21· ·the 2045.
22· · · · Within the project limits, Harborview Road is a
23· ·two-lane roadway with an open drainage system.· The
24· ·current posted speed limit is 45 miles per hour.· The
25· ·existing right-of-way is approximately 80 feet wide
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·1· ·throughout the project corridor.· This section is the
·2· ·only portion of Harborview Road between U.S. 41 and
·3· ·Interstate 75 that is a two-lane roadway.· There are
·4· ·no existing pedestrian or bicycle facilities located
·5· ·within the project limits except for the approach to
·6· ·the Melbourne Street intersection.· The project limits
·7· ·to Harborview Road currently connects to a five-lane
·8· ·urban roadway to the west and a four-lane divided
·9· ·roadway to the east.
10· · · · We ask for your input on proposed improvements to
11· ·Harborview Road at a public workshop on March 29,
12· ·2018.· Based on your comments and additional
13· ·environmental and engineering analyses, a preferred
14· ·build alternative was selected.
15· · · · The Preferred Alternative for Harborview Road
16· ·results in the development of a four-lane divided
17· ·roadway with 11-foot travel lanes, curb and gutter
18· ·along inside and outside edges of pavement, and a
19· ·30-foot grassed median.· Six-foot sidewalks and
20· ·seven-foot buffered bicycle lanes will accommodate
21· ·pedestrian and bicycle traffic along the corridor.
22· ·The proposed improvements require 34 feet of proposed
23· ·right-of-way, to be combined with the existing
24· ·right-of-way for a total width of 114 feet.· The
25· ·widening alignment shifts either north or south of the
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·1· ·existing roadway to minimize impacts to the
·2· ·surrounding residences.· Roundabouts are proposed at
·3· ·the Melbourne Street intersection and the Charlotte
·4· ·County Environmental Campus entrance.
·5· · · · Throughout this study, a "no-build" alternative
·6· ·is also considered and will remain a viable
·7· ·alternative until the completion of the study.· The
·8· ·"no-build" alternative assumes that no improvements
·9· ·will be made to Harborview Road beyond the year 2045
10· ·except routine maintenance.
11· · · · Advantages of the no-build alternative include:
12· ·No inconvenience to traffic flow due to construction.
13· ·No right-of-way acquisition, design or construction
14· ·cost; and no direct effects to adjacent natural and
15· ·human environments.
16· · · · Disadvantages of the no-build alternative
17· ·include:· Lack of bicycle or pedestrian facilities;
18· ·increases in traffic congestion and road user delay;
19· ·it is not consistent with the local transportation
20· ·plans; and it does not meet the project's purpose and
21· ·need.
22· · · · The no-build alternative remains a valid option
23· ·and will continue to be evaluated until completion of
24· ·this study.
25· · · · FDOT evaluated environmental and socioeconomic
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·1· ·factors relating to the proposed widening improvements
·2· ·in accordance with the National Environmental Policy
·3· ·Act of 1969, as amended, and other federal
·4· ·requirements.· The evaluation considered the effects
·5· ·of widening Harborview Road on:· Threatened and
·6· ·endangered species.· Wetlands and floodplains.
·7· ·Stormwater management and permitting.· Noise.
·8· ·Right-of-way requirements and relocations.
·9· ·Contamination.· Cultural and historic resources.· Land
10· ·use.· Air quality.· Construction effects, and
11· ·aesthetics.
12· · · · Threatened and endangered species are allowed
13· ·special protection under the Endangered Species Act of
14· ·1973, as amended, and Florida Statutes.· FDOT assessed
15· ·species within the project limits, and through ongoing
16· ·coordination with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and
17· ·the National Marine Fisheries Service, it is
18· ·anticipated that the proposed project "may affect, but
19· ·is not likely to adversely affect" the existence of
20· ·certain federally listed threatened or endangered
21· ·species.
22· · · · The animal species include the American
23· ·Alligator.· Eastern Indigo Snake.· Everglades Snail
24· ·Kite.· Smalltooth Sawfish.· Wood Stork.· Piping
25· ·Plover.· Florida bonneted bat, and the West Indian
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·1· ·Manatee.
·2· · · · In addition, "no adverse effect anticipated" has
·3· ·been determined for the following State listed
·4· ·threatened or endangered species; the Golden Leather
·5· ·Fern.· Gopher Tortoise.· Pine Snake.· American
·6· ·Oystercatcher.· Black Skimmer.· Tricolored Heron.
·7· ·Least Tern.· Little Blue Heron.· Roseate Spoonbill.
·8· ·Snowy Plover.· Southeastern American Kestrel, and the
·9· ·Florida Sandhill Crane.
10· · · · Coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
11· ·Service regarding the final status of these species is
12· ·ongoing.· If the Preferred Alternative is approved by
13· ·OEM, FDOT District One will continue to work closely
14· ·with environmental agencies in the future phases, such
15· ·as design and construction, to meet all environmental
16· ·permitting requirements.
17· · · · A Cultural Resource Assessment Survey, or CRAS,
18· ·was prepared in accordance with Section 106 of the
19· ·National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as
20· ·amended.· Research and field testing have indicated
21· ·that the proposed improvement will have no effect on
22· ·the surrounding historic resources.· Historic resource
23· ·coordination was conducted with the State Historic
24· ·Preservation Officer, and concurrence with the project
25· ·findings was granted on December 19, 2018.
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·1· · · · FDOT evaluated wetlands and floodplains within
·2· ·the project limits in accordance with Executive Orders
·3· ·'11990, "Protection of Wetlands," and 11988.
·4· ·"Floodplain management."· The proposed improvements
·5· ·may impact an estimated 0.8 acres of wetlands and 2.7
·6· ·acres of surface waters.· Floodplain compensation is
·7· ·not required because project area is tidally
·8· ·influenced and the Preferred Alternative does not
·9· ·encroach into a regulatory floodway.· The project
10· ·study area is located within the service areas of
11· ·Little Pine Island Mitigation Bank and the Department
12· ·will mitigate wetland impacts resulting from this
13· ·project's construction to meet requirements of Florida
14· ·Statutes and United States code.
15· · · · Widening Harborview Road will require FDOT to
16· ·acquire right-of-way and may result in the
17· ·displacement of three residences.· To minimize
18· ·unavoidable effects of right-of-way acquisition and
19· ·displacement of people, FDOT will carry out a
20· ·right-of-way relocation program in accordance with
21· ·Florida Statute Section 339.09, and the "Uniform
22· ·Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition
23· ·Act of 1970."· Brochures are available which describe
24· ·the Department's right-of-way and relocation
25· ·assistance program in detail and provide the
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·1· ·right-of-way office address and phone number.· Staff
·2· ·are available this evening to assist and discuss the
·3· ·program.
·4· · · · FDOT conducted a traffic noise analysis
·5· ·consistent with requirements outlined in Title 23 Code
·6· ·of Federal Regulations part 772, Procedures for
·7· ·Abatement of Highway Traffic Noise and Construction
·8· ·Noise.· The prediction of traffic noise levels was
·9· ·performed using Federal Highway Administration's
10· ·Traffic Noise Model (TNM).· For the Preferred
11· ·Alternative 38 residents are predicted to experience
12· ·future noise level approach, meet or exceed the Noise
13· ·Abatement Criteria.
14· · · · A review will be performed during the future
15· ·project design phase to identify potential noise
16· ·sensitive sites that may have received a building
17· ·permit subsequent to the noise study but prior to
18· ·project's Date of Public Knowledge.
19· · · · Results of the environmental contamination
20· ·screening showed that five sites along the corridor
21· ·were evaluated and found to have no potential
22· ·contamination risk to the study.· Additional testing
23· ·is not recommended, and the Preferred Alternative will
24· ·result in no significant contamination impacts.
25· · · · This project is not expected to change future
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·1· ·land use patterns on Harborview Road, nor result in
·2· ·adverse impacts to water quality and air quality.
·3· ·Minimal construction effects are expected.
·4· · · · Environmental and socioeconomic effects
·5· ·associated with the proposed widening of Harborview
·6· ·Road have been summarized in an evaluation matrix,
·7· ·which is on display tonight.· Department
·8· ·representatives are available this evening to discuss
·9· ·this with you.
10· · · · The estimated costs to widen Harborview Road from
11· ·Melbourne Street to Interstate 75 include 4 million
12· ·dollars for final design.· $269,000 for mitigation,
13· ·and 8.5 million dollars for right-of-way acquisition
14· ·for roadway widening and stormwater management areas.
15· ·The total estimated construction cost for the project
16· ·is 29 million dollars.· The cost for construction
17· ·engineering and inspection is estimated at 4.4 million
18· ·dollars.· The Department's preliminary estimate of
19· ·total project cost is 46.2 million dollars.
20· · · · At this time, FDOT's Tentative Five-Year Work
21· ·Program includes funding for the design phase of the
22· ·Harborview Road from Melbourne to Interstate 75
23· ·Project in fiscal year 2020, and the right-of-way
24· ·phase in fiscal year 2023.· Construction is not
25· ·currently funded.
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·1· · · · The Department will complete the Harborview Road
·2· ·PD&E study by summer of 2019.· The study schedule is
·3· ·on display this evening.
·4· · · · We encourage you to review the project
·5· ·information tonight, complete the comment form in your
·6· ·handout and drop it in one of the boxes provided, or
·7· ·if you prefer, you may mail or e-mail your comments
·8· ·postmarked by March 25, 2019, to the address on the
·9· ·comment form.
10· · · · This information also available for review at two
11· ·locations.· One of them is the Port Charlotte Public
12· ·Library, 2280 Aaron Street, Port Charlotte, Florida
13· ·33952.· Please call the library for hours of operation
14· ·at (941) 764-5562.· The other location is the FDOT
15· ·District One Headquarters, 801 North Broadway Avenue,
16· ·Bartow, Florida 33830.· Please contact FDOT project
17· ·manager Steven A. Andrews, by phone at (863) 519-2270
18· ·or by e-mail at [email protected] to make
19· ·an appointment to review the materials.· You may also
20· ·visit the project website at
21· ·www.swflroads.com/harborview/melbournesttoi75 for the
22· ·latest study information.
23· · · · The Harborview Road study team is here tonight to
24· ·answer your questions and listen to your comments.· We
25· ·invite you to speak with them and to review the aerial
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·1· ·maps, plans and illustrations on display.
·2· · · · This public hearing is conducted in accordance
·3· ·with Federal Highway Act of 1968, as amended; Chapter
·4· ·23, United States Code 128; Title 40, Code of Federal
·5· ·Regulations, Part 1500 through 1508; Title 23, Code of
·6· ·Federal Regulations, Part 771; Section 339.155,
·7· ·Florida Statutes; and the National Environmental
·8· ·Policy Act of 1969, as amended.
·9· · · · FDOT advertised this hearing consistent with
10· ·federal and state requirements.· This hearing is
11· ·conducted in accordance with the Americans with
12· ·Disabilities Act of 1990, and with Title VI of the
13· ·Civil Rights Act of 1964, Florida Statutes, Section
14· ·120.525; and Section 286.011; and Section 335.199; and
15· ·Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 24 and
16· ·Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1506.
17· · · · Anyone who feels he or she has been discriminated
18· ·against with regard to race, color, national origin,
19· ·age, sex, religion, disability, or family status may
20· ·complete one of the forms located at the sign-in table
21· ·and mail the completed form to the address listed on
22· ·the poster board.
23· · · · Thank you for your interest and participation in
24· ·the Harborview Road from Melbourne Street to
25· ·Interstate 75 Project Development and Environment
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·1· ·study public hearing and for taking the time to join
·2· ·us this evening."
·3· · · · (Video concluded.)
·4· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· We will now have an intermission so
·5· ·you can review the displays, talk with members of the
·6· ·Department or design team and ask any questions that
·7· ·you may have.· We welcome your oral or written
·8· ·comments that will help us make this important
·9· ·decision.· Our personnel will distribute speaker cards
10· ·to those in the audience who have not received one and
11· ·would like to make a statement.· A Court Reporter will
12· ·record your statement and a verbatim transcript will
13· ·be made of all oral proceedings at this hearing.· If
14· ·you do not wish to speak at the microphone, you may
15· ·provide your comments in writing or directly to the
16· ·Court Reporter at the comment table.· Every comment
17· ·method carries equal weight.
18· · · · Written comment received or postmarked no later
19· ·than 10 days following the date of this public hearing
20· ·will be become a part of the public record for this
21· ·hearing.· All written comments should be mailed to the
22· ·address shown in your handout.
23· · · · Anyone desiring to make a statement or present
24· ·written views regarding the location, conceptual
25· ·design, or social, economic, and environmental effects
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·1· ·of the improvements will have an opportunity to do so
·2· ·after the intermission.· If you are holding a
·3· ·speaker's card, please give it to Maggie Bruno during
·4· ·the intermission.· If you have not received a
·5· ·speaker's card and wish to speak, please raise your
·6· ·hand so you can receive a card to fill out.
·7· · · · The time is 5:23.· We will resume in 15 minutes.
·8· · · · (Whereupon, an intermission break was taken.)
·9· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· We are about to start.
10· · · · Ladies and Gentlemen, we will now begin the
11· ·public testimony portion of the hearing.· Those who
12· ·have turned in speaker's cards, when I call your name,
13· ·please come forward to the microphone so the Court
14· ·Reporter will be able to get a complete record of your
15· ·comments.· Please state your name, address and if you
16· ·represent an organization, municipality, or public
17· ·body, please provide that information as well.· We ask
18· ·that you limit your input to two minutes.· Maggie
19· ·Bruno here will raise her hand to let you know your
20· ·time is up.
21· · · · So when you come forward, go to Brandon over
22· ·there.· That's where you will speak.
23· · · · Okay.· The first speaker is Mark Bowsher.
24· · · · MR. BOWSHER: Thank you.
25· · · · First of all, I'd like to thank our County
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·1· ·Commissioners who don't give two cents about us,
·2· ·couldn't even come tonight.
·3· · · · Second of all, I am just shocked about this whole
·4· ·30-foot median crap and all this stuff.· It is
·5· ·ridiculous.· I measured Edgewater, there is 12 foot,
·6· ·16 foot, there is four feet medians.· 41 north brand
·7· ·new between us and North Port, 16 foot median.· Come
·8· ·on guys, save some money here.· Taylor Road, they just
·9· ·approved a mixed use bike path with pedestrian
10· ·sidewalk, 10 feet wide on one side of the road.· Just
11· ·like Collingswood, just like Loveland.· You guys don't
12· ·even have to take our land if you'd roll back a little
13· ·bit and stay in some guidelines.· There is a shift at
14· ·Oakview that goes over to the waterside of the road.
15· ·It's going to take out five septics, two garages and
16· ·over 300 feet of privacy wall.· That's going to cost
17· ·you guys a million bucks.· There is just so much pork
18· ·and crap in this thing it's unbelievable.· You have
19· ·got to scale this back.· This is -- we don't need
20· ·landscaping in the middle, just because we're going to
21· ·Sunseeker's does not mean we need palm trees all the
22· ·way down Harborview Boulevard to get there.
23· · · · Lastly, these drawings are over three years old,
24· ·two to three years old.· There is three million brand
25· ·new million dollar houses on this road that aren't on
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·1· ·any of these drawings.· This stuff was all done years
·2· ·ago.· It is not even close.
·3· · · · The noise study was done in August and September.
·4· ·There is nobody here then.· I've never seen so much
·5· ·garbage in my life.· What you are going to do to us
·6· ·waterfront property owners in the most beautiful
·7· ·stretch of water in Charlotte County.· It is
·8· ·disgusting.· I'm done.
·9· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Thank you for you comment.
10· · · · Next person Fred Swing.
11· · · · DR. SWING: I say the same thing he just said.
12· ·Where in Port Charlotte do we have 30 feet median
13· ·strip.
14· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Thank you for your comment.
15· · · · Next person is Stephen Buchinsky.
16· · · · MR. BUCHINSKY:· Good afternoon.
17· · · · I'd like to comment concerning the proposed
18· ·entrance to the Rolls Landing Condominium Association.
19· ·The existing entrance right now barely allows two cars
20· ·to be in a queue, and that includes the cars that are
21· ·alongside the guardhouse.· Your proposal right now is
22· ·going to shorten the area going to the guardhouse,
23· ·basically going to put the right-of-way right in front
24· ·of the guardhouse.· And any way to put a queue going
25· ·into Rolls Landing, what you are calling right now is
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·1· ·a turning lane, is going to be a queue.· I've never
·2· ·seen any highway built where turning lane is approved
·3· ·to be a queue.
·4· · · · So basically what -- the layout right now for the
·5· ·guardhouse and for the entrance and the egress coming
·6· ·out of Rolls Landing is not workable.· And I believe
·7· ·that we need to work on that, you need to work on that
·8· ·to basically to see physically how you can expect that
·9· ·to work, because right now it won't.
10· · · · Thank you.
11· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Thank you for your comment.
12· · · · Next speaker is Joyce Rose.
13· · · · MS. ROSE: Good evening.
14· · · · Sometime back there was a meeting at Charlotte
15· ·Harbor Water Association, and they were proposing an
16· ·expansion project along Harborview as well.· Is this
17· ·going to coincide with the expansion of Harborview
18· ·where you all start?
19· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Ma'am, we will address our comments
20· ·at the end of the comment period, not tonight.
21· · · · MS. ROSE:· Okay.
22· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Thank you for your comment.
23· · · · Next speaker is Greg Taylor.
24· · · · MR. TAYLOR: Thank you very much.· Thank you for
25· ·the time in presenting this to us.· We appreciate it.
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·1· ·Anyone driving down Harborview pulling a boat trailer
·2· ·or any other kind of trailer obviously understands
·3· ·that those are extreme narrow lanes and some work is
·4· ·needed.
·5· · · · Where I get a little bit lost on this is we are
·6· ·between the viable opportunity, our alternative of do
·7· ·nothing, and 46 million dollars.· I am lost on that a
·8· ·bit, because I don't understand 30 foot easement. I
·9· ·don't understand walkways on both sides of the road.
10· ·Now, maybe there is some magical engineering fete,
11· ·like utilities under the concrete that needs to be
12· ·done, et cetera, but I'm not convinced that this isn't
13· ·a bit of overblown.
14· · · · Some of the concerns that I have is that beyond
15· ·that is there is some things that are the unintended
16· ·consequences, so on Peace Creek, which is only about a
17· ·quarter mile from here, as soon as you widen that up,
18· ·we already get a lot of noise coming off Harborview.
19· ·I live out on the water.· We already get a lot of
20· ·noise.· You open that up and we are going to just --
21· ·going to be sound -- boom box coming down that.· And I
22· ·moved here for the reason a lot of you moved here to
23· ·enjoy -- I already get enough noise off 75 -- but I
24· ·moved here to enjoy the water and sit and watch the
25· ·fish, not to get bombarded by sound and such.
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·1· · · · I am concerned about some of the things I don't
·2· ·hear.· I don't hear about light pollution.· What is
·3· ·the plan for these wonderful sidewalks.· Are we going
·4· ·to like light this thing up like a Christmas tree all
·5· ·the way down to Melbourne.· I don't see that anywhere.
·6· ·I've asked, I'm not hearing anything about it.· What
·7· ·are we doing about light pollution.
·8· · · · So really I am a little bit scratching my head
·9· ·here saying yes, we need improvements.· But this
10· ·doesn't -- there is somewhere -- there's got to be a
11· ·middle of this.· This doesn't make sense.
12· · · · Thank you.
13· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Thank you for your comment.
14· · · · Next would be Joseph Gaither.
15· · · · MR. GAITHER:· How are you all this evening.· Glad
16· ·to see everybody, and the people I don't know out
17· ·here, which is everybody.· I'm a new resident here.
18· ·I've been here four years.· I live at -- Joseph
19· ·Gaither's my name.· I live at 25098 Harborview right
20· ·at the intersection of Sapodilla.
21· · · · From my observation for the few years I've been
22· ·here every single yard on Harborview has the scars and
23· ·marks of vehicles being kicked in there, 18 wheelers
24· ·going off the road, cars being hit from behind
25· ·stopping to turn at an intersection at that street,
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·1· ·and there is just -- it is a drag strip down here.· So
·2· ·we can all see the speed and the effects of it.
·3· · · · I'm in support of a no-build thing, period.· If
·4· ·they did nothing we'd be better off.· If they were to
·5· ·do it, then I would say another roundabout be
·6· ·introduced at an intersection like Sapodilla or Drance
·7· ·or Guava Street to mediate the flow of traffic, the
·8· ·speed, and get rid of -- a 30-foot median is just --
·9· ·makes no sense at all.
10· · · · Any commercial traffic, which I know has been
11· ·brought into consideration, if it is coming south from
12· ·75, then they're turning down Kings to come down here,
13· ·it's more direct.· If anybody is going north then they
14· ·come over 17 get onto 41 and go in the heart of Port
15· ·Charlotte, Punta Gorda.· I just -- it's unconceivable.
16· ·I am for the no-build.
17· · · · Thank you.
18· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Thank you for your comments.
19· · · · Next person is Freddie Caldwell.
20· · · · MS. CALDWELL:· My name is Freddie Caldwell. I
21· ·live at 24181 Harborview.· And I want to make it very
22· ·clear that I give no consent to this project.· Why
23· ·isn't my commissioner here to represent our area.· I'm
24· ·very saddened that that's happened.· The diagram
25· ·that's being shown to us is aged.· There is new
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·1· ·construction that has gone on, and we are looking at
·2· ·unavailable documents that tells us what is really
·3· ·existing on these roadways.
·4· · · · My main concern is that in the process of wanting
·5· ·to sell my house the current value has been
·6· ·substantially diminished, because I have to disclose
·7· ·this to potential buyers.· It is an unfunded project,
·8· ·and I can see where we are on your handout that we go
·9· ·to 2023.· But after that there is no funds to build
10· ·the road.
11· · · · So right now we are telling everybody this is
12· ·going to happen, and where are you getting your
13· ·funding, who secures that.· If we are going to do
14· ·something we should have already had secured funds
15· ·instead of getting everybody so upset and concerned.
16· ·But I understand that we have to have public hearings,
17· ·but I am feeling from the people I have talked to that
18· ·this is a done deal.
19· · · · So what is the State or County doing to help me
20· ·with my loss in value of my property now.· I also
21· ·agree that the size is incorrect in comparison.· Mark
22· ·stated it very clearly, and that should be looked at
23· ·if this is going to go through before anything goes
24· ·any further.
25· · · · Okay.· That's all I have to say.· I think it is a
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·1· ·sham.· Good luck.
·2· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Thank you for your comments.
·3· · · · Our last speaker card is John Murray.
·4· · · · MR. MURRAY:· My name is John Murray.· I live on
·5· ·Danforth Drive, which is the drive first road off of
·6· ·here.· And I am going to be a little bit different.
·7· ·My -- I just wanted to put this view what makes sense
·8· ·to me.· Given that we are going to be having the
·9· ·projected construction on 41 and Harborview Road, the
10· ·no-build alternative to me is totally unacceptable. I
11· ·could not conceive how we can drive up and down
12· ·Harborview with multiple condos there.· So it isn't a
13· ·choice of whether we don't do anything or not.· We
14· ·have to do something.· We have to do it quickly, and
15· ·hopefully we can do it in conjunction with the condo
16· ·construction and whatever.
17· · · · I did have some questions, but obviously we are
18· ·not answering questions now.· The one question I will
19· ·have that will remain unanswered is will I still be
20· ·alive when this is done?
21· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Thank you for your comment.
22· · · · Is there anyone who has not spoken who would like
23· ·to speak?
24· · · · MR. RICHARDSON:· I don't know a lot of you, but
25· ·most of you know I live on the Deadman's Curve right
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·1· ·there on Harborview where they are always knocking
·2· ·down my pillar.· All this is about is safety.· We have
·3· ·a drag strip now.· Can you imagine pulling out now. I
·4· ·don't know what they are going to put the speed limit
·5· ·at, but right now it's 65.
·6· · · · So just trying to -- and they're going to put the
·7· ·road right next to our house now, like 25 foot away,
·8· ·so that nice gas tanker, falls asleep a little bit and
·9· ·goes through my house, that will be nice, won't it.
10· · · · Safety is not even in any of the brochures back
11· ·there to put roads that close to your house.· And
12· ·lighting, just like the gentleman said, can you
13· ·imagine put -- light that up, you won't even be able
14· ·to sleep, much less hear.· Mine's all on safety for
15· ·all of us.· I know we need something done to the road,
16· ·but we don't have to have 30-foot street, sidewalks on
17· ·both sides.· Who's going to walk on that side.· Put a
18· ·bike path.· Definitely don't have to be as big as it
19· ·is right now.
20· · · · Thank you.
21· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Thank you for your comment.
22· · · · If anyone wishes to submit written statements or
23· ·other exhibits in place of or in addition to oral
24· ·statements --
25· · · · We have one more.
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·1· · · · MR. HISTMAN:· My concern is the roundabout. I
·2· ·don't understand why the roundabouts need to be
·3· ·connecting roads that are very lightly used,
·4· ·especially you guys happen to get out of here, I mean,
·5· ·this is -- a roundabout is a very expensive project
·6· ·and just to accommodate this place, and Melbourne
·7· ·Street just don't make any sense to me.· So that was
·8· ·my question.
·9· · · · I'm in agreement with just about everything
10· ·everybody said.
11· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Thank you for your comment.
12· · · · MR. HISTMAN:· I'm Michael Histman.· I live at
13· ·Rolls Landing.· Sorry, should have --
14· · · · MR. ANDREWS:· Anybody else?
15· · · · Okay.· If anyone wishes to submit written
16· ·statements or other exhibits in place of or in
17· ·addition to oral statements you may do so.· Once
18· ·again, written statements and exhibits will be
19· ·accepted and recorded as part of this hearing if
20· ·postmarked by March 25, 2019.
21· · · · Mail your statements to me, Steven A. Andrews,
22· ·project manager, Florida Department of Transportation,
23· ·P.O. Box 1249 Bartow, Florida 33831.· This is the same
24· ·address that appears on the back of your comment
25· ·sheet.
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·1· · · · The verbatim transcript of this hearing's oral
·2· ·proceedings, together with all written material
·3· ·received as part of the hearing record and all
·4· ·studies, displays, and informational material provided
·5· ·at the hearing, will be made a part of the project
·6· ·decision-making process and will be available at the
·7· ·district office for public review upon request.
·8· · · · Thank you for attending this public hearing and
·9· ·for providing your input to this project.· It is now
10· ·5:56.· I hereby officially close the public hearing
11· ·for Harborview Road from Melbourne Street to I-75 in
12· ·Charlotte County.
13· · · · Thank you and have a good evening.
14· · · · (Proceedings concluded at 5:56 p.m.)
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