City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street 

Extension Project 

NEPA ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 

Federal Railroad Administration 

/8-11-08/ /s/ David Valenstein 

Date of Approval Federal Railroad Administration 

The following person may be contacted for additional information concerning this 

document: 

Catherine Kauffman 

Federal Railroad Administration 

Office of Railroad Development 

1200 New Jersey Avenue, W38-213 

Washington, DC 20590 

(202) 493-6347 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

Environmental Assessment 

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Table of Contents 

Table of Contents 

1.0 INTRODUCTION 

 1.1 Purpose and Need for Action 3 

 1.2 Decisions Needed 3 

 1.3 Permits, Licenses, and Related Laws 3 

 1.4 Organization of the EA 3 

2.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION AND ALTERNATIVES 3 

 2.1 Alternative 1 (Preferred Alternative) 3 

 2.2 Alternative 2 4 

 2.3 No-Action Alternative 4 

 2.4 Alternatives Eliminated from Detailed Study 5 

3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 

 3.1 Physical Environment 5 

 3.1.1 Air Quality 5 

 3.1.2 Water Resources 5 

 3.1.3 Noise and Vibration 6 

 3.1.4 Geology and Soils 6 

 3.2 Biological Environment 6 

 3.2.1 Ecological Systems 6 

 3.2.2 Wetlands 6 

 3.2.3 Threatened or Endangered Species 6 

 3.3 Human Environment 7 

 3.3.1 Transportation 7 

 3.3.2 Land Status, Land Use, and Zoning 7 

 3.3.3 Socioeconomic Conditions 8 

 3.3.4 Environmental Justice 8 

 3.3.5 Public Health and Safety 8 

 3.3.6 Contaminated Sites 8 

 3.3.7 Recreation and Section 4(f) Properties 8 

 3.3.8 Cultural and Historic Resources 9 

 3.3.9 Utilities 9 

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES 9 

 4.1 Physical Resources 10 

 4.1.1 Air Quality 10 

 4.1.2 Water Resources 10 

 4.1.3 Noise and Vibration 10 

 4.1.4 Geology and Soils 11 

 4.2 Biological Resources 12 

 4.2.1 Ecological Systems 12 
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 4.2.2 Wetlands 12 

 4.2.3 Threatened or Endangered Species 13 

 4.3 Human Resources 13 

 4.3.1 Transportation 13 

 4.3.2 Land Status, Land Use, and Zoning 14 

 4.3.3 Socioeconomic Conditions 14 

 4.3.4 Environmental Justice 15 

 4.3.5 Public Health and Safety 16 

 4.3.6 Contaminated Sites 17 

 4.3.7 Recreation and Section 4(f) Properties 17 

 4.3.8 Cultural and Historic Resources 18 

 4.3.9 Utilities 18 

 4.3.10 Construction Impacts 19 

 4.3.11 Cumulative Impacts 19 

5.0 REFERENCES 20 

 

List of Appendices 

A Correspondences 

B Warren County Bridge Inventory 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose and need for Action 

The purpose of the project is to enhance railroad and traffic safety by replacing the aging 

and structurally deficient Washington Street Bridge. Significant improvement or 

replacement of the Washington Street Bridge is necessary to adequately accommodate 

truck traffic through the City of Vicksburg and assure continued safe operation of 

passenger cars over the Kansas City Southern Railroad Company (KCSRC) right-of-way. 

The bridge should be replaced with the most cost-effective structure. In addition, and 

considering the improvements proposed for the Washington Street Bridge, this project 

seeks to construct an extension to Lee Street connecting to Washington Street that would 

allow for the closing of the Lee Street grade crossing. 

1.2 Decisions needed

Under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Federal Railroad 

Administration (FRA) is charged with determining if the proposed project might have 

significant impacts on area resources. This Environmental Assessment (EA) evaluates the 

potential impacts of this proposed project and alternatives on physical, biological, and 

human resources in the area. If the FRA decides that impacts would not be significant, it 

will prepare and sign a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). This finding would 

allow the City of Vicksburg to proceed with the proposed action. Congress has 

appropriated funds to the FRA to cover a portion of the cost of the project. 

1.3 Permits, Licenses and Related Laws 

 

No environmental permits or further approvals will be needed for this project. In letters 

dated 3/31/08 and 6/4/08, the Mississippi Department of Archives and History declared 

the Lee Street Extension and Washington Street Bridge sections of the proposed project 

to be free of historical resources. 

1.4 Organization of the EA 

The project objective, purpose and need statement, and permit requirements are described 

in Section 1.0. The project alternatives are evaluated in Section 2.0 with a brief 

discussion of alternatives eliminated from the study. Section 3.0 describes existing 

resources that might be affected by the proposed project. Section 4.0 evaluates the 

consequences of project activities on any physical, biological and/or human resources 

located within the project vicinity. References for the report are listed in Section 5.0. 

Correspondence records are presented in Appendix A. 

2.0 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION AND ALTERNATIVES 

2.1 Alternative 1 (Preferred Alternative) 
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The Preferred Alternative involves the demolition and replacement of the Washington 

Street Bridge that crosses over the Kansas City Southern Railway Company (KCSRC) 

railroad right-of-way. In place of the demolished bridge the City proposes to construct a 

tunnel over the right-of-way/tracks, with an at-grade road placed on top of the tunnel 

structure to accommodate Washington Street traffic. The total length of the proposed 

tunnel is approximately 350 feet. The length of the tunnel will be based on an 

embankment width of 64 feet, with a fill slope ration of 3:1. Existing bridge approaches 

will be reconstructed approximately 350 feet from each end of the existing bridge 

location. North approach reconstruction requires increasing the height of an existing 

retaining wall, and partial reconstruction of Clark Street, from its intersection with 

Washington Street back to Hanley Street. The new section of Washington Street profile 

grade would dip approximately 8 feet below the grade of the existing bridge, to reduce 

the fill material volume needed to construct an embankment, and to improve the 

geometry for the new connector that will reach from Lee Street Washington Street. The 

tunnel would be constructed adjacent to the existing Washington Street Bridge which 

would remain open during most of the construction period. 

The project also encompasses a street extension that would connect two non-contiguous 

segments of Lee Street west of the KCSRC right-of-way. This proposed extension (Lee 

Street extension) would allow for the closing of the Lee Street grade crossing that 

currently is located several blocks north of the Washington Street Bridge, by including a 

new Lee Street /Washington Street connection. 

2.2 Alternative 2 

Alternative 2 would replace the existing Washington Street Bridge with a new bridge in 

the same location. The new bridge would be longer than the currently existing bridge by 

60 feet, spanning a total length of 330 feet. The bridge would be lengthened on each end 

to accommodate placing the end foundations in material located in an area more stable 

than that of the existing bridge foundation location. The bridge would be constructed of 

three prestressed concrete bulb tee girder spans cast continuous to support live loads. 

Interior support bents would be constructed on drilled piers to minimize disturbance of 

the unstable bluff slopes and adjacent rail right-of-way. In order to reduce approach 

reconstruction complications, the grade of the replacement bridge would be at the same 

grade as the existing bridge. Under Alternative 2, Clark Street would necessarily require 

realignment, from the intersection with Washington Street back to Hanley Street. The 

existing retaining wall at the corner of Washington Street and Clark Street would be 

partially relocated. 

Alternative 2 would extend Lee Street through a proposed connection very similar to that 

proposed in Alternative 1. This proposed portion of the project would include a new 

connector from Lee Street to Washington Street as described in Alternative 1. 

2.3 No-action Alternative 

Under the no-action alternative, the proposed project would not be implemented. The 

current Washington Street Bridge would remain operational without repairs, and no 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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tunnel or replacement bridge would be constructed. No extensions to Lee Street would be 

constructed, and the current Lee Street grade crossing would remain operational without 

modification. Although this alternative would not meet the City of Vicksburg’s needs, 

consideration of this alternative is required under NEPA regulations. 

2.4 Alternative Eliminated from Detailed Study 

An alternative initially studied but dismissed from further consideration is the demolition 

of the current Washington Street Bridge, with construction of a new bridge in an 

alternative location east of the existing Washington Street alignment. This eliminated 

alternative would have also extended Lee Street while closing the Lee Street Grade 

crossing in a manner very similar to the Preferred Alternative and Alternative 2. The 

rationale for dismissing this alternative is summarized below: 

• Construction of a bridge in an entirely new location would have required 

significant additional right-of-way acquisition, at great expense to the City. The 

need to acquire additional right-of-way would have necessitated greater disruption 

of already established business and residential areas. 

• The construction of a new bridge would have the most significant impact on and 

disruption to rail traffic within Vicksburg, along the KCSRC right-of-way. 

• Even in a new location, a bridge over the KCSRC right-of-way would require 

significant ongoing bridge maintenance and future repair costs due the instability 

of soil conditions on any bluff where the bridge would be constructed. 

3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 

3.1 Physical Environment 

3.1.1 Air Quality 

The two components of the proposed project (Washington and Lee Streets) are wholly 

located in Warren County, MS, an area meeting all applicable Environmental Protection 

Agency National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Within the State of 

Mississippi, all locales are meeting all NAAQS for all monitored sites, with the exception 

of ground level ozone within DeSoto County. 

3.1.2 Water Resources 

The proposed project site is located entirely within the existing KCSRC right-of-way 

and/or the Mississippi Department of Transportation right-of-way. There are no surface 

water resources located within the proposed project limits. The project property limits for 

the two Build Alternatives are not located within any 100-year floodplain, and no part of 

the proposed project limits is designated as a floodway by any regulating entity. The 

Build Alternatives do not involve the use or disruption of any navigable waters of the 
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U.S. Runoff water resources have caused significant problems for the current 

Washington Street Bridge. Significant erosion has led to instability of soil on the bluff 

where the support pillars are located. Continued erosion is projected given the nature of 

the embankment and bridge characteristics. 

3.1.3 Noise and Vibration 

Railroad activity and street level traffic account for the majority of the noise and 

vibration present at the bridge site. Street level traffic typical of a commercial area and 

railroad operations account for the noise present at the proposed Lee Street extension site. 

3.1.4 Geology and Soils 

Soil conditions associated with the current Washington Street Bridge base pillars are 

inadequate to support continued full operation of the bridge. Erosion at the base of the 

bridge, located on steep banks adjacent to the KCSRC tracks has led to unsafe instability 

and movement of the bridge. Continued bluff erosion is expected, and is considered a risk 

characteristic associated with bridges placed on the bluff area within Vicksburg. Because 

of the unstable bridge conditions, the bridge has been closed to large truck traffic since 

April, 2006. 

3.2 Biological Environment 

3.2.1 Ecological Systems 

The two components of the proposed project (Washington and Lee Streets) are located 

within the near immediate vicinity of the downtown Vicksburg area. Adjoining properties 

are of mixed commercial and residential nature, with the area west of the KCSRC rightof-way being exclusively commercial. 

As the project limits are completely within already established railroad or highway rightof-ways, the proposed site does not provide significant habitat for plant, animal or bird 

species. Both the Washington Street Bridge site and the Lee Street extension site are 

located in areas that have been heavily developed for many years. 

3.2.2 Wetlands 

The two components of the proposed project (Washington and Lee Streets) are not 

located within any wetland region. Coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

will not be necessary. 

3.2.3 Threatened or Endangered Species 

In a letter dated March 14, 2008, the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and 

Parks determined that the proposed project (Washington and Lee Streets) would likely 

pose little threat to any threatened or endangered species or their habitats. 
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3.3 Human Environment 

3.3.1 Transportation 

Washington Street

Within the City of Vicksburg and Warren County, Washington Street historically has 

operated as a designated truck route, acting as the primary truck connection for U.S. 

Interstate 20 and U.S. Highway 61. The Washington Street Bridge has been closed to all 

truck traffic since April, 2006, forcing truck traffic to be re-routed through other arterial 

roads in order to cross the KCSRC tracks. Significant erosion at steep banks of the 

bridge caused instability and movement of the bridge structure, mandating the closure to 

large truck traffic. The Warren County Bridge Inventory Assessment Annotated Report 

detailed the results of the 2/20/07 Washington Street Bridge inspection. At that time, the 

deck, superstructure and substructure were individually rated each as being in “Poor 

Condition.” Shifting on the bridge has resulted in misalignment of guardrails on deck. 

Erosion on the north end of the structure has exposed approximately 15’ of steel piling, 

while erosion on the south side has exposed approximately 20’steel piles at abutment. 

Lee Street

Currently there are two-non contiguous sections of Lee Street. The “northern” segment of 

Lee Street runs generally east/west, with grade crossing over the KCSRC tracks several 

blocks north of the proposed Washington Street right-of-way crossing. The “southern” 

segment of Lee Street runs generally north/south along the west boundary of the KCSRC 

right-of-way and currently provides access to local businesses located west of the 

KCSRC right-of-way. The Lee Street grade crossing on the “northern” segment of Lee 

Street provides limited access to the general commercial area west of the KCSRC rightof-way. Approximately 40 trains cross Lee Street each day on the KCSRC tracks. Over 

1000 vehicles cross the KCSRC tracks each day via the Lee Street grade crossing. 

Rail Right-of-Way

KCSRC trains are operated on the KCSRC right-of-way. The tracks serve the local 

general commercial area east of the Mississippi River and west of proposed project site. 

3.3.2 Land Status, Land Use, and Zoning 

Washington Street

The Mississippi Department of Transportation and/or the KCSRC has exclusive control 

over the rail right-of-way where all proposed construction activities would take place. 

Bordering neighborhoods have been long established though city zoning and 

development as general commercial to the west and mixed use residential/commercial to 

the east of the KCSRC right-of-way. 

Lee Street

The proposed Lee Street extension would take place wholly within the Mississippi 

Department of Transportation and/or the KCSRC right-of-way. 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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3.3.3 Socioeconomic Conditions 

The City of Vicksburg is a community of 26,000 residents. Vicksburg acts as an 

important transportation hub, with Interstate 20, U.S. highways 80 and 61 and Mississippi 

highway 20 all converging within city limits. Vicksburg borders the eastern banks of the 

Mississippi River, and is home to the Vicksburg National Military Park. Services, 

government and manufacturing are the predominant sectors providing earnings through 

work. 

3.3.4 Environmental Justice 

Washington Street

The proposed project is within a Mississippi Department of Transportation and/or 

KCSRC controlled-right-of-way. There are no residential properties within the project 

area, and thus no minority or low-income populations within the proposed project limits. 

Residences in close proximity to the project site would benefit from safety and efficiency 

improvements that would accrue under the proposed project. 

Lee Street

The proposed Lee Street extension would connect the two segments of Lee Street, both of 

which operate in general commercial-zoned areas. There are no residential properties 

within the project area, and thus no minority or low-income populations within the 

proposed Lee Street extension project limits. 

3.3.5 Public Health and Safety 

The current state of the Washington Street Bridge threatens the safety of users within the 

City of Vicksburg. As the bridge ages, and water runoff and other environmental factors 

cause continuous basal erosion, safety concerns increase. The bridge was closed to large 

truck traffic due to safety and stability concerns in April, 2006. The Lee Street grade 

crossing also presents a persistent safety concern. The at-grade crossing, which connects 

business districts east and west of the KCSRC right-of-way, is not equipped with either 

automated flashing signals or crossing arms. Replacement of the bridge, along with the 

extension of Lee Street allowing for the closing of the Lee Street crossing, would allow 

for greater safety and efficiency of traffic operations within Vicksburg. 

3.3.6 Contaminated Sites 

There are no contaminated sites within the proposed project area. 

3.3.7 Recreation and Section 4(f) Properties 

Section. 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act does not apply, as this proposed 

project will be fully constructed within the existing Mississippi Department of 

Transportation and/or the KCSRC controlled right-of-ways and no Section 4(f) covered 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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properties (e.g., parks, wildlife refuges, historic sites) would be used by the Build 

Alternatives. 

Washington Street

The proposed tunnel project would be executed and maintained wholly within 

Mississippi Department of Transportation and/or the KCSRC controlled railroad right-ofway, and thus does not support recreation activities or other section 4(f) protected 

properties. 

Lee Street

The Lee Street extension, proposed to run west of the right-of-way, would be constructed 

entirely within the Mississippi Department of Transportation and/or the KCSRC right-ofway, in an area zoned general for general commercial development and designed to 

provide access to local commercial businesses. West of the commercial zoned area is the 

Mississippi River, which provides a wide variety of recreational opportunities. Lee Street 

currently does not and would not under the proposed extension project provide access to 

the banks of the Mississippi River or any designated recreation areas. No section 4(f) 

protected properties are present. 

3.3.8 Cultural and Historic Resources 

The project site is located within the near immediate vicinity of the downtown Vicksburg 

area. Adjoining properties are of mixed commercial and residential nature. The 

Mississippi Department of Archives and History has been contacted regarding the 

possible historic and cultural significance of the Washington Street Bridge and the Lee 

Street extension proposal. The Department concurred that no historic properties would be 

affected and expressed no objections regarding the Lee Street extension of the project or 

the demolition of the Washington Street Bridge. 

Archaeology, Inc. completed a Cultural Resources Survey on May 14, 2007 covering the 

limits of the proposed project. The results of this review determined the areas bordering 

the existing railroad right-of-way and the proposed project limits were to be considered 

clear of cultural resources. 

3.3.9 Utilities 

Construction of the proposed project as planned will require the relocation of utilities 

located along the KCSRC right-of-way. 

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES 

This section discusses the potential environmental impacts, including direct and indirect 

effects of Alternative 1 (the Preferred Alternative), Alternative 2 and the no-action 

alternative on the environmental resources presented in Section 3.0 of this EA. The 

discussion also identifies the mitigation measures that would be implemented to reduce 

impacts to the environment. 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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4.1 Physical Resources 

4.1.1 Air Quality 

The two components of the proposed project (Washington and Lee Streets) are located in 

Warren County, MS, an area that meets all Environmental Protection Agency’s NAAQS. 

Because the proposed project tunnel is designed only to improve and not expand existing 

infrastructure systems, significant increases in the amount of emissions-producing traffic 

are not expected. The proposed project will have no significant impact on current or 

future air quality standards or lead to the establishment of a non-attainment area. 

Alternative 2, like Alternative 1, seeks to improve already-existing infrastructure. 

Replacing the deficient bridge with a newly constructed bridge would not drastically alter 

area characteristics, and significant increases in the amount of emissions-producing 

traffic are not expected. 

The no-action alternative would have no impact on air quality within the project region. 

4.1.2 Water Resources 

The proposed Washington Street tunnel project would be constructed and maintained 

entirely within the Mississippi Department of Transportation and/or the KCSRC right-ofway, and is not located in an area where surface water resources are present or would be 

affected. Runoff water management would be greatly improved by execution of the 

proposed project tunnel, as the Washington Street traffic running atop of the tunnel would 

be constructed on an at-grade road. Construction of a tunnel in lieu of a bridge would 

avoid the channeling of runoff water toward the bridge end footings and the unstable 

bluff soils. 

Alternative 2 would not be constructed in an area where surface water resources are 

present. Under Alternative 2, runoff problems would be addressed adequately in the 

short-term, but would still pose long term erosion problems and threaten bridge stability. 

As documented by the study of build alternatives prepared by Neel-Schaffer, the bluff 

where any KCSRC bridge crossing would be constructed is subject to significant erosion 

and runoff concerns not specific to the Washington Street crossing. Instability of bluff 

soils in which the bridge pillars must be placed would lead to future maintenance costs 

and fill concerns. 

There would no impact on water resources with the no-action alternative. 

4.1.3 Noise and Vibration 

Washington Street

Construction of the proposed Washington Street tunnel project or Alternative 2 would 

have minimal long term impacts on noise. Anticipated increases in noise can be 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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accredited predominantly to the re-opening of Washington Street to large truck traffic. 

Increased noise levels due to large truck use would conform to the expected and historic 

use of the crossing; significant increases in noise would be present only in comparison to 

the recent period where trucks were prohibited from using the bridge. Increased noise can 

also be expected from the increased use of Washington Street once project construction is 

complete, given that Lee Street will no longer be accessible as a grade crossing. These 

increased noise and vibration levels are not expected to be substantial when compared 

with noise and vibration levels of the bridge prior to April, 2006, when the bridge was 

structurally sufficient to accommodate large truck travel. Because the rail volume is 

expected to remain unchanged under the Build Alternatives, it is not expected that there 

will be a significant increase in railroad noise and vibration impacts under either the 

Preferred Alternative. 

Under the no-action alternative, no changes in ambient noise or vibration levels would 

occur, and there would be no noise impacts. 

Lee Street

Both Build Alternatives call for the closing of the Lee Street grade crossing. Removing 

the crossing would reduce noise impacts in the area adjacent to the crossing through the 

elimination of horn noise associated with trains pass through the existing grade crossing. 

Increases in Lee Street traffic once the extension is complete would add minimal noise 

impacts, but these impacts would not be substantial given the commercial nature of the 

surrounding properties. 

Under the no-action alternative, no changes in ambient noise or vibration levels would 

occur, and there would be no noise impacts. 

4.1.4 Geology and Soils 

Washington Street

Under the Preferred Alternative, a tunnel would be constructed to replace a bridge that 

has experienced significant erosion-related difficulties. The tunnel would be constructed 

in place of the existing bridge, which would be removed once the tunnel construction was 

completed. The current bridge is located on a steep bluff, in an area of unstable soil 

conditions. Base erosion allows the bridge to shift and move. Construction of a tunnel in 

place of the bridge would alleviate significant soil-related concerns. By adopting a tunnel 

plan, the use of steep fill slopes can be avoided. The tunnel would be supported on 

concrete footings on drilled shafts, with retaining walls used to help transition the fill 

slopes down the existing grade. Based on these mitigation efforts, the Preferred 

Alternative would significantly improve geology or soil conditions surrounding the 

project parameters.

Alternative 2 would construct a 60’ longer bridge in the same location as the current 

Washington Street Bridge. Lengthening the bridge allows the end foundations to be 

placed in material more stable than the location of the existing bridge foundations. The 

bridge will consist of a single unit in order to minimize the potential for water runoff 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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from the bridge deck eroding soil surrounding the bridge supports. The interior bents 

would be constructed on piers drilled to minimize movement or disturbance of the known 

unstable bluff soil conditions surrounding the rail bed. These mitigation measures would 

minimize the immediate and short term geologic and soil impacts associated with the 

project. Based on the soil conditions surrounding the bridge in which the footings must 

be placed, in the long term, construction of the bridge and associated runoff would 

contribute to continued soil degradation. 

Significant erosion of the Washington Street Bridge infrastructure bases will continue to 

occur under the no-action alternative, requiring significant maintenance and threatening 

bridge stability and safety. 

Lee Street

Under the proposed Lee Street extension, there would be no impact to geology or soils. 

The proposed extensions would be constructed in a heavily developed commercial area 

within Mississippi Department of Transportation and/or the KCSRC right-of-way. 

Under the Alternative 2 proposed Lee Street extension, given the commercial and 

developed nature of the site, there would also be no impact to geology or soils. 

The no-action alternative would not produce geologic or soil impacts. 

4.2 Biological Resources 

4.2.1 Ecological Systems 

Development of the two components of the Preferred Alternative (Washington and Lee 

Streets) would have no impact on ecological systems. Both areas of the proposed project 

are located in a commercially zoned area and have been generally cleared of vegetation. 

Neither components of Alternative 2 (Washington and Lee Streets) would have any 

impact on existing ecological systems. Construction of a replacement bridge would occur 

at the same site of the current Washington Street Bridge, an area that for many years has 

been commercially zones and cleared of vegetation. 

The no-action alternative would have no impact on ecological systems. 

4.2.2 Wetlands 

No wetlands are present either within the proposed project limits (Washington and Lee 

Streets). Therefore, neither the Preferred Alternative nor Alternative 2 would have any 

potential effect on any wetlands. The proposed action is in compliance with Executive 

Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands. Coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of 

Engineers is not required. 

The no-action alternative would also have no impact on wetlands. 
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4.2.3 Threatened or Endangered Species 

The U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife Service indicated in a letter dated March 14, 

2008 that there are no federally listed threatened or endangered species in the proposed 

project area (Washington and Lee Streets). Therefore, the neither the Preferred 

Alternative nor Alternative 2 would have any effect on populations or habitat of species 

listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. 

The no-action alternative would have no impact on threatened or endangered species. 

4.3 Human Resources 

4.3.1 Transportation 

Washington Street

The Preferred Alternative would have substantial beneficial impacts on transportation 

within Vicksburg. The proposed tunnel construction project would provide safer, more 

reliable street traffic access over the KCSRC tracks, allowing road users better access to 

the business areas west of KCSRC right-of-way. Upon completion of the proposed tunnel 

project, Washington Street could once again accommodate large truck traffic, which has 

not been permitted since April, 2006. Transportation patterns would become streamlined 

and more efficient, as large truck traffic between Interstate 20 and U.S. Highway 61

could cease diversion to other KCSRC crossing sites. This will in turn reduce large truck 

traffic in other areas of the City, helping to relieve congestion associated with diverted 

large truck traffic. The Washington Street Bridge would generally remain open during the 

construction of the new tunnel which would minimize transportation impacts during the 

construction phase. Under the Preferred Alternative railroad operations would remain 

unchanged, with approximately 40 trains passing under Washington Street per day. 

Alternative 2 would also have substantial beneficial impacts on transportation within 

Vicksburg. Once completed, vehicular transportation under this Alternative would 

improve substantially, but given the unstable soil conditions along the KCSRC right-ofway and adjacent bluff, would not be sustained in the long term as successfully as the 

improvements proposed in the preferred alternative. Alternative 2 would require 

additional long term maintenance, during which traffic patterns could be disrupted. 

Construction of a new bridge is unlikely to accommodate long term transportation growth 

demands, given the history of unstable soil conditions and documented bridge 

difficulties. Washington Street would have to be closed in order to accommodate the 

construction of a new bridge under Alternative 2, with traffic detoured to alternative 

routes. Under Alternative 2, rail traffic would also be disrupted during the construction 

period, with normal operations to resume for both rail and vehicular traffic upon 

construction completion. 

Under the no-action alternative, transportation safety and efficiency will be threatened. 

The current Washington Street Bridge is aging, and shows sign of significant damage and 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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structural deficiency. The compromised Washington Street Bridge cannot accommodate 

any large truck traffic. The Washington Street Bridge is designated as requiring critical 

maintenance, and continued use of the Washington Street Bridge will further strain the 

bridge structure, threatening safety and transportation efficiency. 

Lee Street

The Lee Street extension should benefit transportation through improved business access 

to locations west of the KCSRC right-of-way under the Preferred Alternative. Currently 

transportation west of the KCSRC is fragmented. There is no through street running the 

length of the KCSRC right-of-way boundary west of the right-of-way. The Lee Street 

extension would interconnect two already existing segments of road, creating through 

access along the length of the Washington Street/Lee Street area west KCSRC boundary. 

It would eliminate the need for backtracking and additional right-of-way crossings for 

those wishing to travel in a north/south direction entirely west of the right-of-way. 

Execution of the Lee Street extension under Alternative 2 would produce transportation 

impacts, including improved accessibility to commercial districts, very similar to what 

would occur under the Preferred Alternative. 

There would be no transportation improvement under the no-action alternative and 

transportation west of the KSCRC would remain fragmented and the at grade rail 

crossing at Lee Street would remain. 

4.3.2 Land Status, Land Use and Zoning 

Washington Street

The current Washington Street Bridge, site of the proposed tunnel construction project, is 

located entirely in a general commercial zoned area. Adjacent to the southeast lays an 

area of residential zoning. The Preferred Alternative, Alternative 2 and the no-action 

alternative would each comply with the current zoning and be compatible with 

surrounding land uses. Under no alternative would any zoning designations change. No 

alternative would have impact on land status, land use or zoning. 

Lee Street

The proposed Lee Street Extension is located entirely in an area zoned for general 

commercial development. The Preferred Alternative and Alternative 2 would both extend 

and connect the non-contiguous sections of Lee Street and would be compatible with 

existing general commercial land uses. The Lee Street Extension would provide access to 

established businesses located west of the KCSRC right-of-way. 

The no-action alternative for the Lee Street extension would have no impact on land 

status, land use or zoning. 

4.3.3 Socioeconomic Conditions 

Washington Street
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

Environmental Assessment 

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The Preferred Alternative would not displace any local businesses or residences. The 

Preferred Alternative also would not affect the population or housing supply of the area. 

Since the proposed tunnel will replace already existing infrastructure, there will be no 

disruption or sectioning within established communities. The community residents will 

likely benefit from increased safety and utility of the Washington Street corridor. 

Construction of the proposed project would provide temporary work in the area, and 

require local expenditures on services, wages and materials. Such expenditures would be 

minor and short-term, and are not expected to have any significant effects on the local 

economy. Upon project completion, impacts experienced by local business economies 

will likely be beneficial, linked to the better business access permitted under the Preferred 

Alternative. 

Alternative 2 would not displace any local businesses or residences. The lengthening of 

the new bridge, while requiring realignment of the Hanley/Washington Street 

intersection, would not require the relocation of any parcel property. Similar to the 

Preferred Alternative, residents would likely benefit from increased safety and utility of 

the Washington Street corridor associated with the new bridge. Construction of the 

proposed project would provide temporary work in the area, and require local 

expenditures on services, wages and materials. Such expenditures would be minor and 

short-term.

The no-action alternative would have no impact on socioeconomic conditions within the 

immediate vicinity of the proposed project. Long term the availability of a safe and 

secure crossing of the KCSRC rail line at Washington Street is important to the economic 

vitality of Vicksburg. 

Lee Street

The proposed Lee Street extension project would not displace any local homes or 

residences. The Preferred Alternative also would not affect the population or housing 

supply of the area. Local businesses will likely experience beneficial impacts, as the 

proposed Lee Street extension will provide better access through the commercial district 

located west of the KCSRC right-of-way. All entrances to business will remain accessible 

throughout the construction phase. Construction of the proposed project would provide 

temporary work in the area, and require local expenditures on services, wages and 

materials. Such expenditures would be minor and short-term, and are not expected to 

have any significant effects on the local economy. 

Alternative 2 proposes construction parameters for the Lee Street extension very similar 

to the Preferred Alternative. As such, there are no anticipated adverse socioeconomic 

impacts expected with Alternative 2. 

The no-action alternative would maintain the disjointed, limited access present in the 

commercial district west of the KCSRC right-of-way. 

4.3.4 Environmental Justice 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

Environmental Assessment 

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Washington Street

Because the Preferred Alternative’s project area is located entirely within the Mississippi 

Department of Transportation and/or KCSRC right-of-way and located in an area zoned 

for general commercial development, there are no residential properties located within 

the project development limits. Residents of the residential developments located to the 

southeast of the Washington Street site should benefit from improved access, safety and 

efficiency in crossing over the KCSRC tracks that will accrue from tunnel construction. 

Therefore, no adverse impacts on minority or low-income populations would occur as a 

result of the proposed Washington Street tunnel project. The project complies with 

Executive Order 12898 (Environmental Justice) and the Department of Transportation 

Order on Environmental Justice. 

Based on location of the bridge construction under Alternative 2, there will no impacts 

environmental justice considerations. The construction would occur entirely within the 

Mississippi Department of Transportation and/or KCSRC right-of-way, located in an area 

zoned for general commercial development. This alternative would have similar benefits 

for areas residents and comply with the Executive and FRA Orders on Environmental 

Justice. 

The no-action alternative would have no impact on environmental justice considerations. 

Lee Street

The Preferred Alternative’s proposed Lee Street extension is located entirely within a 

commercially zoned area. Residents should benefit from the improved connection and 

route that allows better access to local businesses. No adverse impacts on minority or 

low-income populations would occur as a result of the proposed Lee Street extension. 

Because Lee Street is commercially zoned, Alternative 2 would likewise have no adverse 

impacts on environmental justice considerations. 

The no-action alternative would have no impact on environmental justice considerations. 

4.3.5 Public Health and Safety 

Washington Street

The existing Washington Street Bridge is inadequate to meet current transportation safety 

needs. Major structural components of the bridge, including the deck, superstructure and 

substructure, were rated as in poor condition on the date most recent inspection. Critical 

maintenance is required to maintain limited use of the bridge, which has been closed to 

large truck traffic since April, 2006. The proposed tunnel project would allow for 

significantly safer travel by fully demolishing the current bridge and replacing it with a 

tunnel, on top of which runs an at-grade road to accommodate Washington Street traffic. 

The proposed tunnel project would eliminate the potential for erosion at the base of the 

bridge pillars, a documented problem associated with the current bridge structure. The 

Preferred Alternative would provide significant advantages in the long term, offering 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

Environmental Assessment 

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more stability and less maintenance than a bridge alternative. The Preferred Alternative 

would also not establish any barriers to the elderly or disabled. 

Alternative 2 would provide immediate and short term public health and safety benefits 

upon project completion. The immediate structural problems associated with the current 

Washington Street Bridge that forced limited operation would be eliminated, and full 

traffic could resume. In the long-term, the replacement bridge would fail to offer reliable 

safety and stability benefits. As documented, the soil conditions surrounding the KCSRC 

right of way where the bridge would be constructed have difficulty sustaining secure 

bridge footings. Runoff leads to significant erosion on the bluff where bases are placed, 

causing instability and bridge shifting/movement. A replacement bridge would 

necessarily be subject to these hazards. The north end of the current Washington Street 

Bridge failed approximately 20 years ago, was replaced, and again is structurally 

deficient. Alternative 2 would similarly not establish any barriers to the elderly or 

disabled. 

The no-action alternative would fail to address the need for critical maintenance 

identified as required for continued safe bridge operation. 

Lee Street

The Lee Street extension would benefit public safety by closing the Lee Street grade 

crossing, thus ensuring that all traffic traversing the KCSRC right-of-way be diverted to 

the proposed Washington Street tunnel. This will eliminate potential for vehicle/train 

collisions encountered at the grade crossing, which does not have automated flashing 

signals or crossing arms. 

Alternative 2, in extending Lee Street, would also force the closing of the Lee Street 

grade crossing. Benefits would be similar to those advanced with the Preferred 

Alternative. 

The no-action alternative would have no direct impact on public safety but the existing 

crossing would remain with the potential for accidents. 

4.3.6 Contaminated Sites 

There are no contaminated sites within the proposed project area. Neither Build 

Alternative would introduce contaminants into the project area. There will be no 

contamination impact under either of the Build Alternative. 

The no-action alternative would have no contamination impact. 

4.3.7 Recreation and Section 4(f) 

There are no recreation areas or parks located within or adjacent to the proposed project 

areas (Washington and Lee Streets). Therefore, there would be no impact to recreation. 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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No Section 4(f) properties (publicly owned parks or historic properties) would be affected 

by either the Preferred Alternative or Alternative 2. 

The no-action alternative also would have no impact on recreation or Section 4(f) 

properties. 

4.3.8 Cultural and Historic Resources 

Washington Street

The Mississippi Department of Archives and History was contacted about the possible 

historic significance of the Washington Street Bridge and the immediately surrounding 

areas. The results of the investigation reveal that neither the bridge nor any structures 

within the project area are considered historic places (i.e., on or eligible for the National 

Register of Historic Places), so the Preferred Alternative will not have impact on any 

existing historic resources. Archaeology, Inc. completed a Cultural Resources Survey on 

May 14, 2007 covering the limits of the proposed project. The results of this review 

determined that the areas bordering the existing railroad right-of-way were clear of 

cultural resources. The Washington Street bridge area has been subject to significant 

excavation and fill, and it is very unlikely that the tunnel construction project will yield 

findings of cultural significance. 

Because the Washington Street Bridge is not considered a historic resource, construction 

of a replacement bridge under Alternative 2 would have no impact on historical 

resources. 

The no-action alternative will not have any impact on cultural or historic resources. 

Lee Street

The Mississippi Department of Archives and History expressed no historic or cultural 

objections regarding the Lee Street extension of the project. There would be no historic 

or cultural impacts resulting from the proposed Lee Street extension with either the 

Preferred Alternative or Alterative 2. 

The no-action alternative will also have no impact on cultural or historic resources. 

4.3.9 Utilities 

Washington Street

Electrical infrastructure and services are present within the proposed Washington Street 

project limits. The area is already developed to accommodate heavy traffic flow through 

the use of electric lights and signals. Relocation of above ground utilities located along 

the KCSRC right-of-way will be required, particularly at the north end of the current 

bridge. No other impacts are anticipated. 

Alternative 2 would also require the relocation of some utilities, but not to the extent of 

the Preferred Alternative. No other impacts are anticipated. 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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Under the no-action alternative all utility services and locations would remain unchanged 

and there would be no utility impact. 

Lee Street.

Electrical infrastructure and services are present at the proposed project site, which is 

located in a developed, commercially zoned area. Construction of the Lee Street 

extension under either the Preferred Alternative or Alternative 2 will have minimal 

impact on utilities. 

Under the no-action alternative all utility services and locations would remain unchanged 

and there would be no utility impact. 

4.3.10 Construction Impacts 

The two components of the Preferred Alternative (Washington and Lee Streets) would 

take approximately nine months to complete. During this time Washington Street would 

remain open to traffic, with planned construction causing only minor traffic impacts 

commonly associated with transportation improvement projects. Bridge traffic may be 

halted temporarily during a 30-45 day period. Currently through traffic is not possible 

given the non-contiguous nation of the Lee Street segments, so any traffic impacts 

associated with the construction of the Lee Street extension should be minimal. The 

entrance to the Diamond Jack Casino, directly west of the area where the 

Washington/Lee Street connector is to be constructed, needs to remain open throughout 

construction. In order to permit business traffic, sheet piling would be required to 

accommodate traffic flow during the construction period. 

Construction of Alternative 2 would require the closure of Washington Street to traffic 

throughout the entire construction process. Traffic would necessarily be detoured to 

alternative routes. This would be disruptive to traffic conditions in the area. 

Construction would also require the realignment of Clark Street, from the Washington 

Street Intersection to the Hanley Street intersection. Partial relocation of the retaining 

wall located at the corner of Washington Street and Clark Street would also be necessary. 

Construction of the Lee Street extension portion of the project would be very similar as 

the preferred alternative. 

Under the no-action alternative there would be no construction impacts. 

4.3.11 Cumulative Impacts 

No other significant projects are underway within the City of Vicksburg in the area 

surrounding the project construction site. The Preferred Alternative and Alternative 2 

would contribute to the safety and efficiency of traffic and rail operations. Because no 

other projects are underway within Vicksburg, neither the Preferred Alternative not 

Alternative 2 would add to cumulative impacts associated with multiple projects. 
City of Vicksburg Washington Street Tunnel and Lee Street Extension Project 

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There would be no cumulative impacts under the no-action alternative. 

5.0 REFERENCES 

Archaeology Resources, Inc. 2007. Cultural Resource Survey of Washington Street 

Bridge over Kansas City Southern Railroad Vicksburg, Warren County, Mississippi. 

Neel-Schaffer. Study of Alternatives for Washington Street Improvements. 

Office of State Aid Road Construction. Warren County Bridge Inventory Annotated 

Report. 2007. Available online at: 

http://www.osarc.state.ms.us/DATA/75/SA75058s.HTM. 

Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber of Commerce. Available online at: 

http://www.vicksburgchamber.org/vicksburg_demographics.htm

Tom Hartwell. The Vicksburg Post. 12/05/07.