ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 

FOR THE TROY TRANSIT CENTER 

INTERMODAL RAIL PASSENGER FACILITY 

OAKLAND COUNTY, MICHIGAN 

APPENDIX 

CONTENTS 

June 18, 2009 Memorandum to Jana Ecker stating that no further archeological 

investigations are warranted 

September 22, 2009 Letter from Michigan SHPO confirming no adverse effect for 

the proposed high speed rail project, which includes the Troy Transit 

Station on the Preferred Alternative site 

September 14, 2009 Letter to Michigan Department of Natural Resources 

(MDNR) Natural Heritage Program, Wildlife Division requesting 

information on threatened and endangered species within the 

proposed high speed rail project corridor including the Troy 

Preferred Alternative site (with appendices) 

September 14, 2009 Letter to MDNR requesting identification of “concerns 

during the Environmental Assessment process” regarding 

ecologically sensitive natural areas and threatened and endangered 

species within the proposed high speed rail project corridor 

including the Troy Preferred Alternative site (appendices not 

included; same as MDNR letter above) 

September 14, 2009 Letter to US Fish and Wildlife Service requesting 

identification of “concerns during the Environmental Assessment 

process” regarding ecologically sensitive natural areas and 

threatened and endangered species within the proposed high speed 

rail project corridor including the Troy Preferred Alternative site 

(appendices not included; same as MDNR letter above) 

October 7, 2009 Response from US Fish and Wildlife Service stating that two 

federally listed endangered species “may occur within the identified 

project area” 

November 16, 2009 Email stating that a database of T&E species is attached 

March 19, 2010 Email noting historical populations over 90 years old of three T&E 

plant species and noting that there would be no impact due to the age 

of the records 

June 28, 2011 Letter from Canadian National (CN) Railroad discussing the 

installation of “signaling relocation and upgrades, crossovers and 

turnouts” to service the proposed Troy station 

MEMORANDUM 

Date: June 18, 2009 

To: Jana Ecker - Planning Director 

From: Sheila Bashiri - City Planner 

Subject: Historic Review of Transit Center Site 

I have conducted a field review of the proposed Transit Center site to investigate 

the presence of archaeological or architectural resources in the study area. 

Regarding the archaeological resources, the Transit Center project does involve 

disturbing the ground, including excavation for the pedestrian tunnel and ramp 

system and utilities, and the removal of a small number of trees. In my opinion, 

as an architectural historian certified by the State of Michigan Historic 

Preservation Office (SHPO) under the U.S. Secretary of Interior’s National Park 

Service 36 CFR professional criteria for Historian, there is a low potential for 

recovery of archaeological remains and no further investigation is warranted. 

None of the buildings or structures included in this proposal are 50 years of age 

or older, located in a historic district, or listed and / or eligible for listing on the 

National Register of Historic Places. 

 


JENNIFER M. GRANHOLM 

GOVERNOR 

STATE OF MICHIGAN 

DEPARTMENT OF 'TRANSPORTATION 

LANSING 

KIRK T. STECIDLE 

DIRECTOR 

September 14,2009 

Mr. Chris Hoving 

Michigan Department of Natural Resources 

Natural Heritage Program, Wildlife Division 

P.O. Box 30180 

Lansing, Michigan 48909-7680 

Dear Mr. Hoving: 

Pontiac-Detroit-Chicago Rail Corridor Project 

Service NEPA Environmental Assessment 

The purpose of this letter is to request that the Michigan Department of Natural Resources 

(MDNR) review the proposed high-speed railroad project from Pontiac, Michigan, to the Indiana 

State Line. This information will allow the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to 

complete the Service NEPA Environmental Assessment and identify all impacts associated with the 

proposed project. MDOT needs to hlly understand the concerns of the MDNR with regard to 

threatened and endangered species and their habitats within this corridor. 

Provided below are the project description, scope of work, township/range/section location 

information, ecologically sensitive natural areas, threatened and endangered species overview, 

corridor maps, and a summary. This document should provide the MDNR with the information 

needed to review the proposed project and provide comments identifying your concerns during the 

Environmental Assessment process. ppp-pp -- - - - - - - - - -- -- - -- 

Project Description 

MDOT is applying for federal grants to improve the Chicago Hub Corridor between Detroit and 

Chicago. The improvements are part of the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative (MWRRI) and the State 

Long Range Transportation Plan (SLRP). Public involvement for the MWRRI and SLRP revealed 

solid interest on the part of the public for increased mode choices and improvements in connectivity 

among transportation modes. MDOT is in the process of completing a Service NEPA Environmental 

Assessment for the corridor improvements. 

The railroad corridor historically existed as a double track throughout. The second track was 

previously removed for much of the corridor; however, the sub-ballast was left in place. The railroad 

corridor is approximately 240 miles in length. Most of the track runs through rural areas with the 

stations located in urban areas. A more detailed scope of work, with purpose and need statements, is 

discussed below and is followed by four project corridor maps at the end of this document. 

MURRAY D. VAN WAGONER BUILDING. P.O. BOX 30050. LANSING. MICHIGAN 48909 

www.rnichigan.gov (517) 373-2090 
Mr. Chris Hoving 

Page 2 

September 14,2009 

Map One - MI HSIPR Infrastructure Stabilization (NS, CN) - Vicinity 

Map Two - MI HSIPR Infrastructure Stabilization (NS, CN) - West 

Map Three - MI HSIPR Infrastructure Stabilization (NS, CN) - Center 

Map Four - MI HSIPR Infrastructure Stabilization (l\JS, CN) - East 

MDOT Endangered Species Staff (David Schuen and Richard Wolinski) have preliminarily reviewed 

the corridor and completed a phase one office review. This consisted of corridor analysis for listed 

species and their habitats using the Michigan Natural Features Inventory Database and Web Mapping 

Application. Due to the very short time frame associated with the application process for this ARRA 

funding, phase two field reviews/surveys have not been completed. 

Scope of Work 

Corridor Stabilization 

This is a statewide rail corridor located in Michigan, in the following counties (west to east): 

Berrien, Van Buren, Kalamazoo, Calhoun, Jackson, Washtenaw, Wayne and Oakland. The 

Stabilization element covers the entire Chicago Hub High Speed Rail Corridor in Michigan, 

beginning in Pontiac (global milepoint 22.40 NW); proceeding southeasterly to Milwaukee 

Junction in Detroit (MP 1.16 NE); continuing southwesterly and westerly to Kalamazoo 

Station (MP 143.77); and continuing southwesterly and westerly to at the Michigan-Indiana 

state line (MP 223.1 1). The Acquisition element of this project encompasses the Norfolk 

Southern Rail Lines (NS) between Dearborn (Townline, MP 7.6) and Battle Creek (Baron, 

MP 119.6), as well as between Battle Creek (Gord, MP 121.3) and Kalamazoo (MP 143.2). 

The stabilization element of the project will stabilize and improve this corridor for existing 

intercity passenger rail and for future expansion of high speed intercity passenger rail 

frequencies. This is intended to maintain rail speeds at 79 mph or to return segments of the 

corridor back to 79 mph, as needed. Stabilization will prevent degradation of capacity in the 

corridor by retaining infrastructure already in place. The acquisition element of the project 

has the goal of MDOT acquiring control of the NS railways described above so that MDOT -- - -- - can proceed-with improvementswhic~-will-result~~n~m~ntainingngs~e~at 7gngrnTand in 

preparation for intercity rail passenger top speeds of 110. The total project cost of both 

elements of the project, combined, is $132.5 million. 

Corridor Stabilization - Purpose and Need: 

The purpose of this project is to stabilize and maintain rail infrastructure to safely 

accommodate high speed passenger rail services and increase passenger train service 

frequencies in order to provide efficient commuter and intercity passenger train operations in 

the Chicago Hub (Chicago to Detroit) Corridor. This project is one of several related 

projects, each having independent utility, along the corridor. Both the stabilization and 

acquisition elements of this project include improvements along the corridor which are 

needed to safely increase passenger train speeds to, or maintain speeds at, 79 mph, and upon 

completion of all related projects, to a top speed of 110. These improvements are also needed 

to safely increase the number of passenger trains per day without detrimental impacts to rail 

freight flows. 
Mr. Chris Hoving 

Page 3 

September 14,2009 

Corridor Improvements 

This project consists of several smaller project segments located along the Detroit to Chicago 

rail corridor. The corridor includes segments owned by Norfolk Southern (NS), Conrail, and 

Amtrak and includes the Conrail Shared Asset segment. Improvements to this Michigan rail 

corridor were identified by the MWRRI in consultation with the owners of the rail lines. 

Planned improvements to the Amtrak portion of the corridor (Kalamazoo to Porter) include 

track improvements, upgrades to signalization and grade crossing improvements. Planned 

improvements to the NS portion of the corridor (Dearborn to Kalamazoo) and the Conrail 

Shared Assets portion (West Detroit to Dearborn) include construction of sidings, track 

improvements, signalization upgrades, a second set of main tracks on the NS portion, grade 

crossing improvements and expansion of the incremental train control system. Planned 

improvements to the Conrail portion of the corridor (Pontiac to West Detroit) include 

construction of sidings, rehabilitation and replacement of rail, replenishing track ballast, 

replacement of rail ties, upgrades to signalization, grade crossing improvements and 

expansion of the incremental train control system. 

Corridor Improvements - Purpose and Need: 

The purpose of this project is to upgrade rail infrastructure to safely accommodate high speed 

passenger rail services and increase passenger train service frequencies in order to provide 

efficient commuter and intercity passenger train operations in the Detroit to Chicago 

Corridor. The improvements are needed to safely increase average passenger train speeds 

from the existing 54 mph to 63 mph and to attain speeds of up to 110 mph along certain 

segments of the corridor. These improvements are also needed to reduce passengerlfreight 

traffic conflicts and to safely increase the number of passenger trains per day without 

detrimental impacts to rail freight flows. 

West Detroit Connection 

West Detroit Connection Project extends from immediately west of West Detroit Junction 

(global MP 3.43SW) east to Vinewood with signaling improvements extending east to 

Milwaukee Junction (global MP 1.16NE). The project involves connecting the Conrail 

Shared Assets and the eonrail railroads at West Detroit Junction-and con~~ctingone mile of 

new track eastward to the Vinewood Interlocking. Additional property will be acquired to 

make these improvements. Several crossovers will be installed: one immediately west of 

West Detroit Junction, one immediately east of West Detroit Junction, one near Vinewood 

Interlocking, and a universal crossover east of Vinewood Interlocking. Beaubien 

Interlocking and Milwaukee Junction improvements, two of the Detroit International Freight 

Terminal (DIFT) external projects, will be constructed as part of this project. In addition, the 

current ABS will be converted to CTC signaling between Milwaukee Junction and West 

Detroit Junction. The project will result in trains taking a more direct route between Dearborn 

and the Detroit New Center Station, avoiding congested freight trains segments. These 

improvements will have independent utility and can be constructed and placed into existing 

services on an individual basis, thus providing immediate incremental benefits as full 

implementation progresses. Improvements in crossovers for passenger rail traffic will allow 

for a large reduction in conflict points between rail and freight along the corridor. The result 

will be greater safety for passenger trains in this area, increased reliability and reduced travel 
Mr. Chris Hoving 

Page 4 

September 14,2009 

times. Freight traffic will also benefit from this reduction in conflicts with the passenger' 

trains, reducing their travel times concurrently. 

West Detroit Connection - Purpose and Need: 

The purpose of this project is to alleviate passenger and freight rail congestion in one of the 

busiest rail connection points in the state. The current speeds top only at 15 mph for 

passenger and freight rail travel. Proposed improvements will add a connecting track and 

approximately one mile of additional track to alleviate the congestion point located at Bay 

City Junction. Additionally, several crossovers, signal modernization and other track 

improvements will be installed to ease congestion and improve speeds. These track 

improvements will allow for improved passenger train service Frequencies, greater reliability 

and improved safety. 

Stations 

(I) TroyA3irminaham: Birmingham currently has an existing platform and shelter structure. 

The relocated station will be moved to Troy on an approximate 7 acres of land set aside for a 

transit center and service both Troy and Birmingham. The Cities of Troy and Birmingham 

(TBS) have entered into an agreement to develop a Multi-Modal Transit Center, which will 

improve the attractiveness, reliability, safety and economic efficiency of rail passenger 

service in the Detroit Metro region. The Transit Center will replace the existing platform 

which basically provides rail transit to Birmingham. The new station will be located where 

the two communities meet, in the area of Maple and Coolidge Streets. The station will offer 

publiclprivate partnerships to the area, which is located on the 9th busiest rail corridor in the 

nation. 

(2) Dearborn: The proposed station and platform construction will combine two existing 

stations on a 7.5 acre site that is currently used as a surface parking lot by the Ford Motor 

Land Services Corporation. This project will include the new station and platform, related site 

and utility infrastructure, parking, storm water management and restoration of double track 

through the new intermodal facility. This station will consist of a central structure plus a bridge 

and tower that-will-link the statiowto-both-tracks and directly tcthe-He~Fordprope~aci%os~ 

the tracks. The new station will improve efficiency in all cases by eliminating one of the stops 

in Dearborn and by locating the station in closer pedestrian proximity to trip generators for all 

three services described. Additionally, upgrading the new station to an intermodal facility 

improves connectivity between trains and regional bus, shuttle, taxi and limousine services, 

especially to Detroit Metropolitan Airport, which is ten minutes from Dearborn. 

(3) Battle Creek: The Battle Creek Station is proposed for station renovation. The City of 

Battle Creek wishes to renovate their multimodal transit station to bring it up to more modem 

standards, making it more attractive and user friendly to the public. The station has not seen 

any major renovation in the past 20 years, and the interior and exterior are showing the signs 

of wear. Work includes renovating the existing interior public spaces of the station to provide 

upgraded finishes and a modern feel, renovating the back-of-house areas of the station to 

provide a more functional layout with upgraded finishes, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, 

security and technological modifications and upgrades, including ADA compliance. 
Mr. Chris Hoving 

Page 5 

September 14,2009 

Stations - Purpose and Need: 

The purpose of this project is to upgrade rail infrastructure and facilities to safely 

accommodate current and increased high speed passenger rail services. Implementation of 

Phase 1 of the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative will provide efficient intercity passenger 

train operations in the Detroit to Chicago Corridor. The station work at each of these three 

stations is one of several related projects, each having independent utility, along the corridor. 

Township, Range and Sections of the Proposed Project 

Below are the township, range and section coordinates for the proposed project that correspond with 

the corridor maps provided at the end of this document. 

Segment 22 

Segment 23 

TRS 
Mr. Chris Hoving 

Page 6 

September 14,2009 

TRS 1 

town 

03s 

Segment 24 

-r RS I 

i 

Segment 25 

TRS 

range 

12W 

1 

town 

01N 

01s 

town 

02s 

section 

5-7 I 

01s 

02N 

02N 

02s 

02s 

02s 

03N 

range 

11E 

1lE 

range 

IIE 

section 

5, 8, 9, 16, 21, 22, 27, 34, 35 

1, 2, 12, 13, 36 

section 

11,12,14 i 

12E 

10E 

11E 

07W 

08W 

11E 

10E 

18, -lgi 2-9-32- 

3,4, 10, 11, 13, 14, 24, 25 I 

I 

30-32 

7 

1, 12 

I 

I 

1, 11, 12/ 13/ 14 

32. 33 -- -- - - - - - - - - - - - - -. 
Mr. Chris Hoving 

Page 7 

September 14,2009 

Segment 26 

TRS 

town 

02s 

Segment 27 

TRS 

range 

1 

town 

01s 

01s 

01s 

02s 

section 

14-19 I 

range 

05E 

08W 

09W 

01W 

section 

31/32 I 

29,30,32-34 ! 

25/34-36 I 

31-35 ~ 
Mr. Chris Hoving 

Page 8 

September 14,2009 

TRS I 

Segment 28 

TRS 

town 

03s 

Ecologically Sensitive Natural Areas in Project Corridor 

range 

04W 

town 

01N 

- - - 

Our review indicates the following ecologically sensitive natural areas are documented adjacent to 

the railroad corridor: 1) Oak Barrens - Central Midwest Type, 2) Prairie Fen - Midwest Type, 3) Dry 

Mesic Prairie - High Prairie - Midwest Type, 4) Wet Prairie - Midwest Type, 5) Coastal Plain Marsh 

- Great Lakes Type, 6) Wet-mesic Prairie - Tallgrass, Central Midwest Type, and 7) Mesic Sand 

Prairie - Moist Sand Prairie, Midwest Type. 

section 

1,2 

Threatened and Endangered Species Overview 

range 

1lE 

Based on the review of MNFI records, there are numerous individual locations for plant and animal 

species adjacent to this comdor that are state or federally listed as Endangered, Threatened or Special 

Concern. During the development of the scope of work for this project, avoidance and minimization 

strategies have been used to lower potential impacts to the plants, animals and their habitats. 

section 

21 i 
Mr. Chris Hoving 

Page 9 

September 14,2009 

Based upon initial review, the federally listed White Prairie Fringed Orchid (Threatened), Indiana 

Bat (Endangered) and Mitchell's Satyr Butterfly (Endangered) and their habitats may be adjacent to 

the project corridor. 

Coordination with the MDNR and USFWS will be completed in an effort to identify all concerns 

relating to state and federally listed Endangered, Threatened and Special Concern plant and animal 

species. Once all concerns have been identified by these agencies, they will be evaluated in the 

NEPA process and in accordance with state and federal endangered species laws. 

Avoidance and Minimization Strategies 

Given that field reviews have not been completed, the level of impact from the proposed work 

activities cannot be fully understood at this time. While avoidance of species and their habitats will 

be the primary method to eliminate impacts, it is still possible that impacts may occur. These 

impacts will then be minimized to the greatest extent possible by altering construction plans, 

construction methods or the time of construction. 

The following information describes MDOT's avoidance and minimization measures that have been 

developed during the initial planning phases of this proposed project: 

The railroad corridor has existed historically, has been an active rail line since its original 

construction and has historically had double track. Therefore, the rehabilitation of existing 

track, new sidings on what was historically double track, and upgrading of existing crossings 

all within existing right-of-way will have a very low impact on species off the existing 

railroad ballast. 

Permanent easement or fee right-of-way that will be acquired from adjoining properties will 

be evaluated for potential threatened and endangered species impacts. 

No rehabilitation work on railroad bridges will occur, aside from normal maintenance 

Fence installation will be completed by a work method or within a seasonal time restriction 

that will avoid impacts to endangered species and their habitats. 

Culvert rehabilitation or replacement will be completed in-kind to minimize impacts to 

sensitive areas during construction. 

All track work off existing ballast, crossing closures, crossing installation or improvements, 

pedestrian crossing installation or improvements, ADA compliance, and/or platform 

installation or improvements, must be approved by MDOT's Endangered Species Specialist 

and the regulatory agencies. This may necessitate species surveys to determine the presence 

and/or absence of certain plants and animals within the corridor. Habitat delineation may 

also be required to better understand the distribution of the species. Furthermore, MDOT 

may be required to obtain a State of Michigan Endangered Species Permit, complete a 

Biological Assessment, and undergo Section 7 Consultation with the USFWS. 
Mr. Chris Hoving 

Page 10 

September 14,2009 

Summary 

There are multiple state and federally listed plant and animal species in the immediate vicinity of the 

proposed project. Based upon the scope of work and the phase one review completed by MDOT, 

there may be impacts to these species and their habitats. MDOT is requesting that the USFWS work 

with MDOT to identify species and areas of concern associated with the proposed project. The 

information provided will allow MDOT to continue work on the Pontiac-Detroit-Chicago Rail 

Corridor Environmental Assessment in an effort to identify all potential endangered species impacts. 

Please feel free to contact. me at (517) 373-3075 or Schuend@michinan.gov if you have any 

questions or require additional information to complete your review. Thank you. 

Sincerely, 

David W. Schuen 

MDOT Endangered Species Specialist 

Environmental Section 

Project Planning Division 

Enclosures 


1'1 

Springport 

MI-HSIPR Infrast~ructUre Stabiliza'tion~l(N~~

Y*, .K . <:I U"liVe' Gs~ie 

Bellevue I 

Tekon~ha~o 'Hanover Athens Burlington ekOnsha 

111 union city 

-w 1 Y - 'ytchfield 

7) kj 

Global Mile Posts 

* Existing Single Track 'E?ldwater HILLSDALE j~j-~b onesville 

SLY C3 I 

+kk Existing Double Track 

City Boundary 

I 

rF5yin~~ 

?, 

d& North Adams 

Allen 

Hillsdale 

A P 

JENNIFER M. GRANHOLM 

GOVERNOR 

STATE OF MICHIGAN 

DEPARTMENT OF 'TRANSPORTATION 

LANSING 

KIRK T. STEUDLE 

DIRECTOR 

September 14,2009 

Ms. Lori Sargent 

Michigan Department of Natural Resources 

P.O. Box 30444 

Lansing, Michigan 48909 

Dear Ms. Sargent: 

Pontiac-Detroit-Chicago Rail Corridor Project 

Service NEPA Environmental assessment^ 

The purpose of this letter is to request that the Michigan Department of Natural Resources 

(MDNR) review the proposed high-speed railroad project from Pontiac, Michigan, to the Indiana 

State Line. This information will allow the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) to 

complete the Service NEPA Environmental Assessment and identify all impacts associated with the 

proposed project. MDOT needs to fully understand the concerns of the MDNR with regard to 

threatened and endangered species and their habitats within this corridor. 

Provided below are the project description, scope of work, township/range/section location 

information, ecologically sensitive natural areas, threatened and endangered species overview, 

corridor maps, and a summary. This document should provide the MDNR with the information 

needed to review the proposed project and provide comments identifying your concerns during the 

Environmental Assessment process. 

Project Description 

MDOT is applying for federal grants to improve the Chicago Hub Corridor between Detroit and 

Chicago. The improvements are part of the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative (MWRRI) and the State 

Long Range Transportation Plan (SLRP). Public involvement for the MWRRI and SLRP revealed 

solid interest on the part of the public for increased mode choices and improvements in connectivity 

among transportation modes. MDOT is in the process of completing a Service NEPA Environmental 

Assessment for the corridor improvements. 

The railroad corridor historically existed as a double track throughout. The second track was 

previously removed for much of the corridor; however, the sub-ballast was left in place. The railroad 

corridor is approximately 240 miles in length. Most of the track runs through rural areas with the 

stations located in urban areas. A more detailed scope of work, with purpose and need statements, is 

discussed below and is followed by four project corridor maps at the end of this document. 

MURRAY D. VAN WAGONER BUILDING P.O. BOX 30050 LANSING, MICHIGAN 48909 

www.rnichigan.gov . (517) 373-2090 
Ms. Lori Sargent 

Page 2 

September 14,2009 

Map One - MI HSIPR Infrastructure Stabilization (NS, CN) - Vicinity 

Map Two - MI HSIPR Infrastructure Stabilization (NS, CN) - West 

Map Three - MI HSIPR Infrastructure Stabilization (NS, CN) - Center 

Map Four - MI HSIPR Infrastructure Stabilization (NS, CN) - East 

MDOT Endangered Species Staff (David Schuen and Richard Wolinski) have preliminarily reviewed 

the corridor and completed a phase one office review. This consisted of corridor analysis for listed 

species and their habitats using the Michigan Natural Features Inventory Database and Web Mapping 

Application. Due to the very short time frame associated with the application process for this ARRA 

funding, phase two field reviews/su~eys have not been completed. 

Scope of Work 

Corridor Stabilization 

This is a statewide rail corridor located in Michigan, in the following counties (west to east): 

Berrien, Van Buren, Kalamazoo, Calhoun, Jackson, Washtenaw, Wayne and Oakland. The 

Stabilization element covers the entire Chicago Hub High Speed Rail Corridor in Michigan, 

beginning in Pontiac (global milepoint 22.40 NW); proceeding southeasterly to Milwaukee 

Junction in Detroit (MP 1.16 NE); continuing southwesterly and westerly to Kalamazoo 

Station (MP143.77); and continuing southwesterly and westerly to at the Michigan-Indiana 

state line (MP 223.1 1). The Acquisition element of this project encompasses the Norfolk 

Southern Rail Lines (NS) between Dearborn (Townline, MP 7.6) and Battle Creek (Baron, 

MP 119.6), as well as between Battle Creek (Gord, MP 121.3) and Kalamazoo (MP 143.2). 

The stabilization element of the project will stabilize and improve this corridor for existing 

intercity passenger rail and for future expansion of high speed intercity passenger rail 

frequencies. This is intended to maintain rail speeds at 79 mph or to return segments of the 

corridor back to 79 mph, as needed. Stabilization will prevent degradation of capacity in the 

corridor by retaining infrastructure already in place. The acquisition element of the project 

has the goal of MDOT acquiring control of the NS railways described --- above -- so that MDOT 

ciii proceed with Cmprovem6nti which will resat in maintaining speeds at 79 mph an& in 

preparation for intercity rail passenger top speeds of 110. The total project cost of both 

elements of the project, combined, is $132.5 million. 

Corridor Stabilization - Purpose and Need: 

The purpose of this project is to stabilize and maintain rail infrastructure to safely 

accommodate high speed passenger rail services and increase passenger train service 

frequencies in order to provide efficient commuter and intercity passenger train operations in 

the Chicago Hub (Chicago to Detroit) Corridor. This project is one of several related 

projects, each having independent utility, along the corridor. Both the stabilization and 

acquisition elements of this project include improvements along the corridor which are 

needed to safely increase passenger train speeds to, or maintain speeds at, 79 mph, and upon 

completion of all related projects, to a top speed of 110. These improvements are also needed 

to safely increase the number of passenger trains per day without detrimental impacts to rail 

freight flows. 
Ms. Lori Sargent 

Page 3 

September 14,2009 

Corridor Improvements 

This project consists of several smaller project segments located along the Detroit to Chicago 

rail corridor. The corridor includes segments owned by Norfolk Southern (NS), Conrail, and 

Amtrak and includes the Conrail Shared Asset segment. Improvements to this Michigan rail 

corridor were identified by the MWRRI in consultation with the owners of the rail lines. 

Planned improvements to the Amtrak portion of the corridor (Kalamazoo to Porter) include 

track improvements, upgrades to signalization and grade crossing improvements. Planned 

improvements to the NS portion of the corridor (Dearborn to Kalamazoo) and the Conrail 

Shared Assets portion (West Detroit to Dearborn) include construction of sidings, track 

improvements, signalization upgrades, a second set of main tracks on the NS portion, grade 

crossing improvements and expansion of the incremental train control system. Planned 

improvements to the Conrail portion of the corridor (Pontiac to West Detroit) include 

construction of sidings, rehabilitation and replacement of rail, replenishing track ballast, 

replacement of rail ties, upgrades to signalization, grade crossing improvements and 

expansion of the incremental train control system. 

Corridor Improvements - Purpose and Need: 

The purpose of this project is to upgrade rail infrastructure to safely accommodate high speed 

passenger rail services and increase passenger train service frequencies in order to provide 

efficient commuter and intercity passenger train operations in the Detroit to Chicago 

Corridor. The improvements are needed to safely increase average passenger train speeds 

from the existing 54 mph to 63 mph and to attain speeds of up to 110 mph along certain 

segments of the corridor. These improvements are also needed to reduce passengertfreight 

traffic conflicts and to safely increase the number of passenger trains per day without 

detrimental impacts to rail freight flows. 

West Detroit Connection 

West Detroit Connection Project extends from immediately west of West Detroit Junction 

(global MP 3.43SW) east to Vinewood with signaling improvements extending east to 

Milwaukee Junction (global MP 1.16NE). The -project involves connecting the Conrail 

Shared Assets and the Conrail railroadtat West~etroit ~unccon andconstructing one mile of 

new track eastward to the Vinewood Interlocking. Additional property will be acquired to 

make these improvements. Several crossovers will be installed: one immediately west of 

West Detroit Junction, one immediately east of West Detroit Junction, one near Vinewood 

Interlocking, and a universal crossover east of Vinewood Interlocking. Beaubien 

Interlocking and Milwaukee Junction improvements, two of the Detroit International Freight 

Terminal (DIFT) external projects, will be constructed as part of this project. In addition, the 

current ABS will be converted to CTC signaling between Milwaukee Junction and West 

Detroit Junction. The project will result in trains taking a more direct route between Dearborn 

and the Detroit New Center Station, avoiding congested freight trains segments. These 

improvements will have independent utility and can be constructed and placed into existing 

services on an individual basis, thus providing immediate incremental benefits as full 

implementation progresses. Improvements in crossovers for passenger rail traffic will allow 

for a large reduction in conflict points between rail and freight along the corridor. The result 

will be greater safety for passenger trains in this area, increased reliability and reduced travel 
Ms. Lori Sargent 

Page 4 

September 14,2009 

times. Freight traffic will also benefit from this reduction in conflicts with the passenger 

trains, reducing their travel times concurrently. 

West Detroit Connection - Purpose and Need: 

The purpose of this project is to alleviate passenger and freight rail congestion in one of the 

busiest rail connection points in the state. The current speeds top only at 15 mph for 

passenger and freight rail travel. Proposed improvements will add a connecting track and 

approximately one mile of additional track to alleviate the congestion point located at Bay 

City Junction. Additionally, several crossovers, signal modernization and other track 

improvements will be installed to ease congestion and improve speeds. These track 

improvements will allow for improved passenger train service frequencies, greater reliability 

and improved safety. 

Stations 

(1) Tro~IBirmin~ham: Birmingham currently has an existing platform and shelter structure. 

The relocated station will be moved to Troy on an approximate 7 acres of land set aside for a 

transit center and service both Troy and Birmingham. The Cities of Troy and Birmingham 

(TBS) have entered into an agreement to develop a Multi-Modal Transit Center, which will 

improve the attractiveness, reliability, safety and economic efficiency of rail passenger 

service in the Detroit Metro region. The Tiansit Center will replace the existing platform 

which basically provides rail transit to Birmingham. The new station will be located where 

the two communities meet, in the area of Maple and Coolidge Streets. The station will offer 

publiclprivate partnerships to the area, which is located on the 9th busiest rail comdor in the 

nation. 

(2) Dearborn: The proposed station and platform construction will combine two existing 

stations on a 7.5 acre site that is currently used as a surface parking lot by the Ford Motor 

Land Services Corporation. This project will include the new station and platform, related 

site and utility infrastructure, parking, storm water management and restoration of double 

track throughthe new intermodal facility. This station wil~consist of a central structure plus 

a bridge %d tower that will link thestation to both tracks and directly to the Henry Ford 

property across the tracks. The new station will improve efficiency in all cases by eliminating 

one of the stops in Dearborn and by locating the station in closer pedestrian proximity to trip 

generators for all three services described. Additionally, upgrading the new station to an 

intermodal facility improves connectivity between trains and regional bus, shuttle, taxi and 

limousine services, especially to Detroit Metropolitan Airport, which is ten minutes from 

Dearborn. 

(3) Battle Creek: The Battle Creek Station is proposed for station renovation. The City of 

Battle Creek wishes to renovate their multimodal transit station to bring it up to more modem 

standards, making it more attractive and user friendly to the public. The station has not seen 

any major renovation in the past 20 years, and the interior and exterior are showing the signs 

of wear. Work includes renovating the existing interior public spaces of the station to provide 

upgraded finishes and a modem feel, renovating the back-of-house areas of the station to 

provide a more functional layout with upgraded finishes, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, 

security and technological modifications and upgrades, including ADA compliance. 
Ms. Lori Sargent 

Page 5 

September 14,2009 

Stations - Purpose and Need: 

The purpose of this project is to upgrade rail infrastructure and facilities to safely 

accommodate current and increased high speed passenger rail services. Implementation of 

Phase 1 of the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative will provide efficient intercity passenger 

train operations in the Detroit to Chicago Corridor. The station work at each of these three 

stations is one of several related projects, each having independent utility, along the corridor. 

Township, Range and Sections of the Proposed Project 

Below are the township, range and section coordinates for the proposed project that correspond with 

the corridor maps provided at the end of this document. 

Segment 22 

Segment 23 

-r RS 1 

I 

town 

02s 

range 

11W 

section 

15, 16,19-21, 29 1 
Ms. Lori Sargent 

Page 6 

September 14,2009 

Segment 24 

TRS 1 

tqwn 

03s 

Segment 25 

TRS 

range 

12W 

section 

5-7 

section 

11, 12, 14 

town 

02s -. - -- .._.. - - - --I 

range 

11E 
Ms. Lori Sargent 

Page 7 

September 14,2009 

Segment 26 

TRS 

Segment 27 

TRS 

town' 

02s 

Itown lrange (section 

- -- - - - - -- - . - - . - - - - i - -2 

range 

1 

section 

14-19 
Ms. Lori Sargent 

Page 8 

September 14,2009 

TRS i 

Segment 28 

town 

03s 

TRS 1 

Ecologically Sensitive Natural Areas in Project Corridor 

range 

07E 

Our review indicates the following ecologically sensitive natural areas are documented adjacent to 

the railroad corridor: 1) Oak Barrens - Central Midwest Type, 2) Prairie Fen - Midwest Type, 3) Dry 

Mesic Prairie - High Prairie - Midwest Type, 4) Wet Prairie - Midwest Type, 5) Coastal Plain Marsh 

- Great Lakes Type, 6) Wet-mesic Prairie - Tallgrass, Central Midwest Type, and 7) Mesic Sand 

Prairie - Moist Sand Prairie, Midwest Type. 

section 

1. 2.4. 5. 9-11 I 

Threatened and Endangered Species Overview 

Based on the review of MNFI records, there are numerous individual locations for plant and animal 

species adjacent to this corridor that are state or federally listed as Endangered, Threatened or Special 

Concern. During the development of the scope of work for this project, avoidance and minimization 

strategies have been used to lower potential impacts to the plants, animals and their habitats. 

Based upon initial review, the federally listed White Prairie Fringed Orchid (Threatened), Indiana 

Bat (Endangered) and Mitchell's Satyr Butterfly (Endangered) and their habitats may be adjacent to 

the project corridor. 
Ms. Lori Sargent 

Page 9 

September 14,2009 

Coordination with the MDNR and USFWS will be completed in an effort to identify all concerns 

relating to state and federally listed Endangered, Threatened and Special Concern plant and animal 

species. Once all concerns have been identified by these agencies, they will be evaluated in the 

NEPA process and in accordance with state and federal endangered species laws. 

Avoidance and Minimization Strategies 

Given that field reviews have not been completed, the level of impact from the proposed work 

activities cannot be hlly understood at this time. While avoidance of species and their habitats will 

be the primary method to eliminate impacts, it is still possible that impacts may occur. These 

impacts will then be minimized to the greatest extent possible by altering construction plans, 

construction methods or the time of construction. 

The following information describes MDOT's avoidance and minimization measures that have been 

developed during the initial planning phases of this proposed project: 

The railroad comdor has existed historically, has been an active rail line since its original 

construction and has historically had double track. Therefore, the rehabilitation of existing 

track, new sidings on what was historically double track, and upgrading of existing crossings 

all within existing right-of-way will have a very low impact on species off the existing 

railroad ballast. 

Permanent easement or fee right-of-way that will be acquired from adjoining properties will 

be evaluated for potential threatened and endangered species impacts. 

No rehabilitation work on railroad bridges will occur, aside from normal maintenance 

Fence installation will be completed by a work method or within a seasonal time restriction 

that will avoid impacts to endangered species and their habitats. 

Culvert rehabilitation or replacement will be completed in-kind to minimize impacts to 

sensitive areas during construction. 

All track work off existing ballast, crossing closures, crossing installation or improvements, 

pedestrian crossing installation or improvements, ADA compliance, and/or platform 

installation or improvements, must be approved by MDOT's Endangered Species Specialist 

and the regulatory agencies. This may necessitate species surveys to determine the presence 

and/or absence of certain plants and animals within the comdor. Habitat delineation may 

also be required to better understand the distribution of the species. Furthermore, MDOT 

may be required to obtain a State of Michigan Endangered Species Permit, complete a 

Biological Assessment, and undergo Section 7 Consultation with the USFWS. 

Summary 

There are multiple state and federally listed plant and animal species in the immediate vicinity of the 

proposed project. Based upon the scope of work and the phase one review completed by MDOT, 
Ms. Lori Sargent 

Page 10 

September 14,2009 

there may be impacts to these species and their habitats. MDOT is requesting that the USFWS work 

with MDOT to identify species and areas of concern associated with the proposed project. The 

information provided will allow MDOT to continue work on the Pontiac-Detroit-Chicago Rail 

Corridor Environmental Assessment in an effort to identify all potential endangered species impacts. 

Please feel free to contact me at (517) 373-3075 or Schuend@michigan.aov if you have any 

questions or require additional information to complete your review. Thank you. 

Sincerely, 

David W. Schuen 

MDOT Endangered Species Specialist 

Environmental Section 

Project Planning Division 

Enclosures 












From: David Schuen 

To: Noblet, Lori 

Date: 11/16/2009 9:37AM 

Subject: Fwd: T&E Species Review 

Attachments: Rail Corridor.xls 

Lori, this is what I got back from Lori Sargent last Friday. Dave 

>>> Lori Sargent 11/12/2009 4:21PM >>> 

Attached is the Excel file that I've developed for the T&E species review for the Pontiac-Detroit-Chicago 

railway corridor project. Let me know if you have any questions. 

NOTE: An e-mail will get a quicker response 

from me than voicemail in most cases 

Lori Sargent 

Nongame Wildlife Biologist 

Wildlife Division 

Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources 

PO Box 30180 

Lansing, MI 48909 

SargentL@michigan.gov ( mailto:SargentL@michigan.gov ) 

517-373-9418 

 
From: David Schuen 

To: Noblet, Lori 

Date: 3/19/2010 8:09AM 

Subject: Re: Troy Station 

Hi Lori, 

 

The database contains three plants at four separate locations in those two sections. 

 

1. Clinton's Bulrush (SC) 1916 

2. False Hop Sedge (T) 1918 

3. Showy Orchis (T) 1916 

4. Showy Orchis (t) 1902 

 

All are historical populations over 90 years old so I should easily be able to clear the project without 

impacts to T/E plants and animals. Due to the age of the records MDNRE and USFWS would not even 

need to be consulted for clearance. Let me know what else you need. 

 

Regards, Dave 

 

 

 

David W. Schuen, Endangered Species Specialist 

Michigan Department of Transportation 

Environmental Section 

Ecological Services, Compliance and Mitigation Unit 

425 W. Ottawa Street 

Lansing, Michigan 48909 

Office (517) 373-3075 

Cell (517) 230-9845 

Fax (517) 373-9255 

Email Schuend@michigan.gov 

>>> Lori Noblet 3/19/2010 7:46AM >>> 

Dave, 

The TRS is: T2N, R11E, Sections 31 and 32. 

Thanks, 

Lori 

>>> David Schuen 3/19/2010 7:02AM >>> 

Morning Lori, 

I got your message but I don't know for certain what the impacts are in that area as the MDNRE didn't 

send the info back in that manner. I can find out for you though if you give me all of the TRS within a 

half mile radius of the proposed station. I can run a check on the MNFI database this morning and get 

an answer back to you before my 9:30 meeting. 

Thanks, Dave