Source: http://www.deq.state.va.us/Programs/EnvironmentalImpactReview/CurrentCompletedProjects/2Q2012ProjectDescriptions.aspx
Timestamp: 2013-05-25 16:15:51
Document Index: 81979804

Matched Legal Cases: ['§648', '§ 403', '§ 1344', 'art 1', 'art 2', 'art 77', 'art 234', 'art 2', 'art 1']

2Q 2012 Project Descriptions
Programs Environmental Impact Review Current & Completed Projects 2Q 2012 Project Descriptions
View Department of Environmental Quality Expenses 2Q 2012 Project Descriptions
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposes to provide mortgage insurance under HUD Section 221(d)(4) to Red Mortgage Capital, LLC, for the construction of the proposed Layton Hall Apartments in the City of Fairfax. The Section 221(d)(4) program provides mortgage insurance for multifamily rental housing for moderate-income families. The project site currently consists of eleven 3-story apartment structures containing a total of 110 residential dwelling units constructed in 1961 on 7.804 acres of land. Exterior improvements include a playground, picnic areas, a storage shed, landscaped regions, and asphalt parking areas. The existing apartment buildings will be demolished for the construction of a seven-building, 325-unit multi-family apartment complex. The property is serviced by electricity, natural gas, and municipally supplied water and sewer. HUD has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture-Rural Development proposes to provide funding under the Community Facilities Direct and Guaranteed Loan Program to the White Stone Volunteer Fire Department for the construction of a new firehouse located on Chesapeake Drive in the Town of White Stone. The Community Facilities Program provides guaranteed loans for the develop essential community facilities in rural areas and towns of up to 20,000 in population. Loans and guarantees are available to public entities such as municipalities, counties, parishes, boroughs, and special-purpose districts, as well as to non-profit corporations and tribal governments. The project includes the construction of a 11,963-square-foot firehouse with a truck bay, general purpose room, kitchen, two large restrooms and two smaller restrooms. A 192-foot x 60-foot asphalt parking lot will provide for 56 parking spaces with an overflow grass lot. In addition, a septic system with drain field and a stormwater management basin will be constructed. The USDA-RD has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. 12-112F
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) proposes to implement Framework Adjustment 6 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish (MSB) Fishery Management Plan (FMP). The proposed action updates the previously approved environmental assessment (EA) that analyzed the Omnibus Annual Catch Limit (ACL) and Accountability Measure (AM) Amendment (Omnibus Amendment). This framework presents and evaluates action intended to provide a more clearly defined management process when applying a single provision of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) risk policy on overfishing, while retaining the flexibility afforded to the Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) in deriving acceptable biological catch (ABC) recommendations when no overfishing limit (OFL) or OFL proxy has been identified. The specific provision to which this action applies is described in section 5.2.2 of the Omnibus Amendment and implemented in §648.21(d) of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). This action describes the limited circumstances under which ABC could be increased for stocks without status determination criteria on overfishing. The NMFS has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. 12-111F
The U.S. Coast Guard plans to expand the sector engineering facility. 12-110S
Virginia Electric and Power Company (Dominion) submitted an application for approval and certification of electric transmission facilities to the State Corporation Commission (SCC). The SCC requested DEQ’s review of the environmental aspects of the project. Dominion proposes to rebuild entirely within existing right-of-way in Rockbridge County the existing 500 kilovolt (kV) Lexington-Cloverdale Line #566. This section of line runs approximately 7.4 miles from Dominion’s existing Lexington Substation to the point of interconnection of Line #566 with a 500 kV transmission line owned by Appalachian Power Company. Dominion also proposes to construct and install associated facilities at its Lexington Substation. The general character of the project area is rural with agricultural and residential uses. 12-109F
The Capital Region Airport Commission (Airport Commission) proposes to make improvements to a security perimeter road at Richmond International Airport (RIC) located in Henrico County. The proposed project will include improvements to the existing perimeter road and construction of approximately 10,000 feet of new security roadway section. The project elements include the following: construct new perimeter security roadway from the eastside apron, south, around the Runway 25 RSA/ROFA to the existing service road located south of the Runway 16 LOC; pave existing perimeter road from ARNG taxiway to Gate S2; construct new perimeter security roadway on the west side of Taxiway “L” from old Taxiway “S”, south, to ARNG taxiway; repair pavement, as needed, and overlay existing service road (old Taxiway “S”) from Taxiway “L” to Airport Maintenance Facility (AMF); install roadway drainage as needed; install roadway marking and signage as needed; East Fence Installation - Install new 8-foot AOA fence (approximately 1,400 LF) adjacent to new perimeter road. The Airport Commission has submitted a Federal Consistency Certification that finds the proposed project consistent with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. 12-108F
The Coast Guard intends to issue a marine event permit to the event sponsors of the 86th Hampton Cup Regatta, to be held in Mill Creek, adjacent to Fort Monroe on August 11 and 12, from noon to 5 PM each day. The event sponsors are the City of Hampton, the Hampton Cup Regatta Racing Club, and the Phoebus Civic Association. The Coast Guard indicates that the event sponsors will place buoys to mark the race course, for a limited time. They are not for general navigational use, and will not display characteristics prescribed for the latter. Docks are already provided along the shoreline. A hydroplane race will take place involving about 75 boats, hydroplanes, and runabouts. The Coast Guard states that the event will comply with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. 12-107S
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) submitted an environmental impact report for the redevelopment of a parking lot on the Virginia Highlands Community College campus. The existing gravel and asphalt-covered parking lots are proposed to be re-graded and paved. The construction of two stormwater management areas (called bio-cells) is part of the proposed project. In addition, VCCS proposes to construct a roundabout at the main entrance and a six-foot wide sidewalk along the northern side of the parking area. 12-106F
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) is reviewing an application from Staples Mill Marketplace, LLC for a Section 404 Clean Water Act individual permit for proposed jurisdictional impacts to Waters of the United States (WOUS) from the proposed construction of the Staples Mill Marketplace Project in Henrico County. The project is located adjacent to the intersection of Staples Mill Road and Hungary Spring Road and will include the construction of two anchor retail tenants, five road front parcels, associated parking, and Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the treatment of stormwater runoff. The 31.07-acre site is currently undeveloped and wooded areas within the project limits have not been cleared. The project area contains approximately 8.02 acres of non-tidal jurisdictional WOUS. The proposed work will result in permanent impacts to 5.55 acres of palustrine forested wetlands (PFO), 192 linear feet (LF) (0.01 acres) of stream channel, and 696 LF (0.05 acres) of jurisdictional ditch, as well as 0.34 acres of temporary impacts to PFO. Staples Mill Marketplace, LLC has submitted a Federal Consistency Certification that finds the proposed project consistent with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. 12-105F
The Department of the Navy (Navy) proposes to construct a base power distribution line and substations at Joint Expeditionary Base (JEB) Little Creek/Fort Story in the City of Virginia Beach. The project provides two new utility main substations on the east and west sides of the base for 34.5/13.2 kilovolt (KV) electrical distribution. The new substations will be powered by a new 115/34.5 KV substation on the west side of the base to be owned and constructed by Dominion Virginia Power. In addition, two new 34.5 KV submarine power distribution cables will be installed under the harbor to run from the west side 34.5 KV substation/switchgear house to the new east side 34.5KV/13.2KV substation. The submarine power cables will be installed by horizontal directional drill (HDD) method to avoid direct impacts to resources located on subaqueous lands. The Navy has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. 12-104F
The Department of the Army (Army) at Fort Belvoir proposes to make upgrades to the drinking water system serving the Woodlawn Chapel and Franklin Road on the Fort Belvoir Main Post. Fort Belvoir’s water utility partner, American Water (AW), will replace 7,884 linear feet of existing waterline with high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The new pipe will be installed parallel to the existing pipe (which will be abandoned in place) using open cut and Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) to minimize impacts to Resource Protection Areas, wetlands and streams. All connection points, service tie-ins and fire hydrants will be open cut and will be located to minimize the disturbance of concrete and asphalt surfaces. The total work area is anticipated to be 171,994 square feet, which includes: material and equipment staging area, area where pipes will be fused together and strung out, and the disturbed soil area. The Army has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. 12-103F
The Department of the Army (Army) at Fort Belvoir proposes to make upgrades to the drinking water system serving the 300 Area on the Fort Belvoir South Post. Fort Belvoir’s water utility partner, American Water (AW), will replace 19,750 linear feet of existing waterline with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe. The new pipe will be installed parallel to the existing pipe (which will be abandoned in place) using open cut and Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) to minimize impacts to Resource Protection Areas, wetlands and streams. All connection points, service tie-ins and fire hydrants will be open cut and will be located to minimize the disturbance of concrete and asphalt surfaces. The total work area is anticipated to be 276,500 square feet, which includes: material and equipment staging area, area where pipes will be fused together and strung out, and the disturbed soil area. The Army has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. 12-102S
The University of Mary Washington proposes to construct the Campus Center in the City of Fredericksburg.
The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries intends to construct a headquarters facility in Hanover County.
The Federal Transit Administration, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Administration, in cooperation with the Federal Aviation Administration have prepared an Environmental Assessment to analyze design refinements for Phase 2 of the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project, which is intended to extend the existing Metrorail system from the East Falls Church station approximately 23.1 miles to the vicinity of State Route 772 in Loudoun County. Phase 1, under construction, is to extend approximately 11.7 miles along the Dulles Airport Access Highway to Wiehle Avenue, and include five stations. Phase 2 would be approximately 11.4 miles long, including six stations. The EA addresses changes in the Locally Preferred Alternative for Phase 2; this alternative was evaluated in a Final Environmental Impact Statement in December 2004 and an amended Record of Decision in November 2006.
The Department of the Navy (Navy), in cooperation with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), has submitted a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)/Overseas EIS (OEIS) that evaluates the potential environmental effects associated with military readiness training and research, development, test and evaluation activities conducted within the Atlantic Fleet Training and Testing (AFTT) Study Area. The Study Area is in the western Atlantic Ocean and encompasses the waters off the east coast of North America and the Gulf of Mexico. The Study Area covers approximately 2.6 million square nautical miles of ocean area, and includes designated Navy operating areas and special use airspace. Virginia offshore and inland coastal waters in the Study Area includes the Virginia Capes Range Complex and the lower Chesapeake Bay.
The Coast Guard intends to establish a safety zone for the Gilmerton Bridge Center Span Float-in. The safety zone would cover a stretch of the Elizabeth River between Eastern Branch at the Campostella Bridge (in Norfolk) to Southern Branch at the Gilmerton Bridge (in Chesapeake), and it would be temporary and moving. The time would also be indefinite (beginning on July 31 at 6 AM, and ending on August 9, weather and project completion permitting). The safety zone would facilitate removal of the existing bascule span of the Gilmerton Bridge and installation of a new center lift span. The safety zone will involve limiting access to the area for public safety purposes. The Coast Guard states that the proposed activities will have no effect on coastal uses or coastal resources of the Commonwealth and are consistent with the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) with the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) as a sponsoring agency submitted a programmatic environmental assessment (PEA) to use funds for shoreline development projects. The USDA FSA and DGIF propose to use Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program grant funds of $1.42 million during a three-year period to expand the Virginia Public Access Lands for Sportsmen program. The funds would provide annual incentive payments to eligible private landowners for negotiated leases, improve habitat on a portion of newly enrolled land, contract an annual survey as a basis for targeting funds and expand the outreach program. 12-096S
The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services submitted an environmental impact report (EIR) for improvements to the existing boiler plant at the Piedmont Geriatric Hospital in Nottoway County. The proposed projects include: • installing a 400 boiler horse power (BHP) dual fuel (biomass and fuel oil) boiler to replace an existing oil-fired boiler, a new computer system, and a biomass storage silo and handling system; • upgrading an existing 200 BHP sawdust (biomass) boiler, a burner on an existing oil-fired boiler, and the existing biomass storage silo and handling system. The EIR indicates that approximately 0.13 acres of land will be disturbed. Land-disturbing projects include: • constructing the biomass storage silo and associated gravel drive with installation of mechanical equipment on the north side of the facility, and • installing mechanical equipment with new concrete pad on the northeast side of the building. 12-095F
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Norfolk District proposes to reissue the State Programmatic General Permit (12-SPGP-01) for Virginia. The 12-SPGP-01 authorizes the discharge of dredged or fill material in nontidal waters, of the United States, including wetlands, associated with certain residential, commercial, and institutional developments and linear transportation projects within the geographical limits of the Commonwealth of Virginia and under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Corps-Norfolk District. These projects must have no more than minimal individual and cumulative impacts and meet listed terms and conditions. The use of 12-SPGP-01 is restricted to those projects that have avoided and minimized impacts to waters of the U.S., including wetlands, to the maximum extent practicable. The Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404(b)(1) guidelines state that no discharge of dredged or fill material shall be permitted if there is a practicable alternative to the proposed discharge that would have less adverse effect on the aquatic ecosystem, so long as the alternative does not have other significant adverse environmental consequences. The Corps authorizes the Commonwealth, through the Department of Environmental Quality, to administer the SPGC for work in nontidal waters and wetlands of the Commonwealth, pursuant to Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (33 U.S.C. § 403) and Section 404 of the CWA (33 U.S.C. § 1344). The Corps finds the proposed reissuance consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Department of the Navy (Navy) has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination (FCD) for the construction of anti-terrorism/force protection upgrades at the Naval Special Warfare Development Group Compound at Naval Air Station Oceana, Dam Neck Annex in the City of Virginia Beach. The upgrades would include renovation of the main Entry Control Point (ECP), renovation of the “back gate” ECP, and relocation of the Visitor Control Center. Fencing would be constructed to address the current vulnerabilities and establish a complete perimeter fence around the entire compound. This action could potentially impact 0.034 acre of wetlands and 6.9 acres of Northern Dune and Swale habitat. The Navy finds that the proposed action is consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Department of the Navy (Navy) has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination (FCD) for a shoreline restoration and protection project at the Joint Expeditionary Base (JEB) at Little Creek/Fort Story in the City of Virginia Beach. The project involves the targeted beach renourishment at three locations, with the construction of stone breakwaters adjacent to the beach at two of these locations. Sand would be replenished along approximately 2,500 linear feet of shoreline at the Omaha Beach training area, along 1,300 linear feet of shoreline across from the Department of Public Works (DPW) building and along approximately 370 linear feet of shoreline to the north and east of Building 734 at the northern terminus of Leyte Road. Six stone breakwaters would be constructed parallel to the beach at the DPW building and three stone breakwaters would be constructed parallel to the beach at Building 734. Approximately 750,000 cubic yards of sand would be required for the beach replenishment. This includes authorization by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to access the Sandbridge Shoal borrow area, located in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 12 miles southeast of the project location. The Navy finds that the proposed action is consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Department of the Navy submitted a federal consistency determination (FCD) for repairs to an existing shoreline protection system at Naval Air Station Oceana, Dam Neck, in the City of Virginia Beach. The proposed improvements will occur along the Atlantic Ocean. The Navy proposes to fully replenish the beach where erosion has occurred. In addition, a new dune may be constructed. According to the FCD, the project would be consistent with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) proposes to implement the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) Recommendation 11-02, which maintains the U.S. North Atlantic swordfish base quota allocation, limits the annual underharvest carryover to 25 percent of the base quota, and requires an annual quota transfer to Morocco. ICCAT Recommendation 11-02 also includes an alternative swordfish minimum size of 25-inches cleithrumcaudal keel (CK). This proposed rule also considers changes to swordfish minimum size requirements, including the 25-inch CK alternative swordfish minimum size and whether the bill of a swordfish must be attached when measuring swordfish using the existing lower jaw fork length minimum size requirement. The rule also includes regulatory modifications and clarifications regarding swordfish fishery season closures and the North Atlantic swordfish quota reserve category. Finally, this proposed rule would also adjust the North and South Atlantic swordfish quotas for the 2012 fishing year to account for 2011 underharvests and landings, as required by ICCAT Recommendations 11-02 and 09-03, and implemented in regulations at 50 CFR 635.27. This proposed rule could affect commercial and recreational fishing for swordfish in the Atlantic Ocean, including the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. This action implements ICCAT recommendations, consistent with the Atlantic Tunas Convention Act (ATCA), and furthers domestic management objectives under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act). The NMFS finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture-Rural Development (USDA-RD) proposes to provide funding under the Community Facilities Direct and Guaranteed Loan Program to the Gloucester Mathews Free Clinic, a private nonprofit organization, for the purchase and expansion of a building located at 5690 Parkway Drive in Gloucester County. The Community Facilities Program can make and guarantee loans to develop essential community facilities in rural areas and towns of up to 20,000 in population. Loans and guarantees are available to public entities such as municipalities, counties, parishes, boroughs, and special-purpose districts, as well as to non-profit corporations and tribal governments. Project activities include purchase of the property, interior renovations and the construction of a 27-foot by 23-foot single-story addition to the existing building in an area currently consisting of mowed lawn. The USDA-RD finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) has submitted a Part 1 Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the acquisition of property located at 217 West Main Street in the City of Richmond. The project area consists of portions of two tax map parcels (W000-0145-003 and W000-0145-029), which are bound by West Main Street to the northeast and West Cary Street to the southwest and separated by an alley. Designated portions of the two parcels are to be formed into a single parcel which shall be acquired by VCU form the VCU School of Engineering Foundation. The property area is approximately 0.94 acres and contains a vacant one-story brick structure first shown on a 1949 Sanborn fire Insurance Map. The property is being acquired for future development. VCU will submit a Part 2 EIR at a future date once facility design and construction plans have been developed.
The Coast Guard’s Telecommunications and Information System Command (TISCOM), based in Alexandria, proposes to replace, in kind, the security perimeter trail and re-pave an existing parking lot. The project would also include construction of a new parking lot (0.17 acre) and a walking trail (0.19 acre, 2,100 linear feet) at the TISCOM facilities along Waesche Drive and near Telegraph Road in southern Fairfax County. The Coast Guard indicates, through its consultant, that the new lot and trail would be constructed with permeable paving materials; the re-paving efforts would not alter the impervious nature of the pavement. The Coast Guard states, through its consultant, that the project is consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Resources Management Program (VCP).
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposes to provide funding to the Better Housing Coalition (BHC), a private, non-profit 501 (C)(3) organization, for the construction of Claiborne Square Phase II, an elderly assisted living complex in the City of Petersburg. The project site is located to the east of the intersection of Lee Avenue and Halifax Street on a previously developed site. Phase I consisted of the construction of a one-story 45,991-square foot, 47-unit complex on 1.896 acres, including a stormwater management facility, parking lots, sidewalks and landscaped areas. Phase II will consist of the construction of ten single family, 2 and 3-unit attached dwellings and 8 and 10-unit apartment dwellings along with an access drive and two common parking lots. In addition stormwater management facilities will consist of detention and bio filtration Best Management Practices (BMPs). The property consists of twenty-four parcels of residential and vacant open space totaling approximately 1.92-acres containing nine residential structures on Gressett Street, six of which are vacant and condemned residences. The six vacant and condemned structures will be demolished and removed for the purpose of the proposed development. Through the Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA), the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is providing U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HOME Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP) funding to BHC. HUD finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Coast Guard intends to promulgate a regulation and issue a marine event permit for a safety zone, to be enforced on June 25 and June 27 from 5 AM to 2 PM each day. The Coast Guard will place 11 yellow unlighted buoys to mark the limits of the swim zone, and five orange and white “No Wake” zone buoys to assist with spectator watercraft speed. The buoys will be established for a limited duration, and will not appear the same as for Intracoastal Waterway markers. The event will be the Assateague Pony Swim, involving approximately 150 to 175 ponies, 500 spectator boats, and as many as 50,000 spectators along the shoreline. The Coast Guard states that the proposed activities will have no effect on coastal uses or coastal resources of the Commonwealth and are consistent with the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The University of Virginia (UVA) submitted an environmental impact report for the installation of sprinkler systems in dormitory rooms and a building (Hotel E) on its campus. These rooms are located in buildings in the historic Academical Village of UVA, which is a World Heritage Site. Ten pavilions (containing classrooms) are intermixed within two rows of 54 student dormitory rooms facing the UVA lawn and six hotels (one of which serves meals) are spaced within two rows of 52 student rooms separated from the lawn rows by gardens. Most of these facilities do not have fire suppression systems. While the main objective of the project is immediate sprinkler protection for the student rooms and Hotel E, it will also install piping for facilitating future sprinkler installations in the pavilions and hotels.
The Coast Guard intends to establish a temporary safety zone for the Isle of Wight Fourth of July Fireworks Event, to be enforced between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM on July 3, 2012. The safety zone will include all waters of the Pagan River within a 420-foot radius of approximate position 36-59-18N/076-37-45W near Smithfield. The purpose of the safety zone is to protect mariners and spectators from the hazards associated with fireworks displays, such as accidental discharge, dangerous projectiles, and falling hot embers or other debris.
The Coast Guard intends to promulgate a regulation for the establishment of a temporary safety zone for the Richmond-Essex Counties Fourth of July Fireworks Event, to be enforced between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM on June 30, 2012. The safety zone will include all waters of the Rappahannock River within a 400-yard radius of approximate position 37-57-12N/076-49-12W on the south shoreline at Jones Point, about 2 miles downstream of the U.S. Route 360 bridge near Tappahannock. The purpose of the safety zone is to protect mariners and spectators from the hazards associated with fireworks displays, such as accidental discharge, dangerous projectiles, and falling hot embers or other debris.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposes to provide funding under the Self-help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP) to the Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg Habitat for Humanity for the Ironbound Square Redevelopment Project in James City County. SHOP grant funds are awarded to eligible national and regional non-profit organizations and consortia to purchase home sites and develop or improve the infrastructure needed for volunteer-based homeownership programs for low-income persons and families. The project involves that redevelopment of two vacant lots (Lot 2 and Lot 37) totaling 0.32 acres. The southern portion of the project site (Lot 2), was formerly developed and utilized for residential purposes until 2011, when the dwelling was demolished. The northern portion of the project site (Lot 37) had been utilized as wooded land until 2011 when the site was cleared. The two lots will be developed with similar single-family residential structures, approximately 1,315 square feet in size. The structures will include three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a living room, dining room, and kitchen areas. Wooden decks are proposed on the exterior of each house, and landscaped areas and asphalt-paved driveways are also proposed for both lots. HUD finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
Old Dominion University submitted an environmental impact report for the construction of the new education building complex on its campus in the City of Norfolk. The building complex is proposed to be approximately 110,000 square feet with one two-story tower and one six-story tower. The proposed project site is a asphalt-covered parking lot. 12-080F
Elizabeth River Crossings Opco, LLC, proposes to construct the Downtown Tunnel/Midtown Tunnel/Martin Luther King (MLK) Extension Project (formerly known as the Midtown Tunnel Corridor Project) in the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth. The project consists of the construction of a new two-lane tunnel under the Elizabeth River adjacent to the existing Midtown Tunnel; maintenance and safety improvements to the existing Midtown Tunnel; minor modifications to the interchange at Brambleton Avenue/Hampton Boulevard in Norfolk; maintenance and safety improvements to the existing Downtown Tunnels; and the extension the MLK from London Boulevard to Interstate 264 (I-264), with an interchange at High Street. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is the lead federal agency for the project and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is a cooperating agency. Elizabeth River Crossings Opco, LLC, has submitted a Federal Consistency Certification that finds the proposed project consistent with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Capital Region Airport Commission (CRAC) proposes to implement a number of 2010 Master Plan projects at Richmond International Airport (RIC) in Henrico County. The purpose of the projects are of three types: 1) those required to continue to comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) design standards; 2) those needed to replace and/or improve existing physical infrastructure at or near the end of its useful life; and 3) those required to accommodate forecast demands. Specific projects addressed in the Master Plan Update have been identified as priorities for the Airport and are designated for implementation within three to five years. Projects required to continue to comply with FAA design standards include: Taxiway ‘M’ reconstruction and realignment; Runway 16/34 rehabilitation; and obstruction removal. Projects needed to replace and/or improve existing physical infrastructure at or near the end of its useful life include: airfield drainage improvements. Projects required to accommodate forecast demands include: Concourse A expansion; Remain-Over-Night (RON) area expansion; belly cargo relocation; employee parking expansion; FBI Complex; and the East Side roadway and utilities project. CRAC has submitted an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the proposed 2010 Master Plan projects. In addition, the EA includes a Federal Consistency Certification that finds the proposed action consistent with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Stafford Regional Airport Authority proposes to remove obstructions to the approach to Runway 33 at the Stafford Regional Airport in Stafford County. The Airport Layout Plan (ALP), which was last updated in 1993, denotes a 50:1 approach on the Runway 33 end (south side) of the runway. In order to achieve this 50:1 Precision Approach, the obstructions to the 50:1 approach surface as well as the Threshold Siting Surface must be removed. This will allow the glideslope, which provides vertical guidance to approaching aircraft, to be turned on. Property and avigation easements have been acquired to enable the Authority to remove Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 77 tree obstructions from approximately 38.7-acres of property in the approach to Runway 33. It has been determined that 0.056 acre of wetland will be impacted by the obstruction removal project. Any tree removal within this 0.056 acre area of wetland will leave the stumps to minimize the ground disturbance. In non-wetland areas, obstruction removal will entail the removal of the trees and of the stumps. The Airport Authority has submitted a Federal Consistency Certification that finds the proposed action consistent with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Department of the Navy submitted a federal consistency document for upgrades to a tactical vehicle training course at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story in Virginia Beach.
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has proposed the 2012 quota specifications for the Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) fishery. This action is necessary to implement binding recommendations of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT), as required by the Atlantic Tunas Convention Act (ATCA), and to achieve domestic management objectives under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act). The 2012 BFT quota specifications are necessary to adjust the annual U.S. baseline BFT quota, recommended for 2011 and for 2012 by ICCAT, to account for any underharvest or overharvest of the adjusted 2011 U.S. BFT quota. Preliminary information indicates an underharvest of the 2011 adjusted BFT quota. ICCAT Recommendation 10-03 limits the amount of underharvest that may be carried forward from one year to the next to no more than 10 percent of a country’s quota. This limits the amount of 2011 U.S. underharvest that may be carried forward to 94.9 mt (10 percent of the 948.7-mt total U.S. quota). NMFS proposes to carry 94.9 mt forward to 2012 and distribute that amount in the same manner as specified for 2011. The adjusted BFT quota and subquotas for the 2012 fishing year would be the same as for the 2011 fishing year based on the best available data regarding 2011 landings and the best available estimate of dead discards, which must be accounted for and reported to ICCAT. NMFS has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The U.S. Department of the Navy (Navy) proposes to construct a main gate entry control point (ECP) at the Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana at Dam Neck Annex in the City of Virginia Beach. The ECP will include concrete anchored cable reinforced security fencing, truck and vehicle inspection lane, hardened guard house with elevated control lane island, and head facilities. In addition, the project includes realignment of multiple inbound lanes, a truck inspection station, relocation of the existing military working dog facility, installation of electronic security systems, relocation of the existing water pump station, and inbound/outbound lane canopy with security lighting, permanent passive barriers and raised traffic median. Other facilities include firing position facility, a truck inspection control facility, a vehicle inspection occupant shelter, and a hardened back-up generator. A working dog kennel and facility will be constructed to replace the existing facility. The Navy has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
Virginia State University (VSU) intends to construct a surface parking lot at its campus in Ettrick in the City of Colonial Heights and Chesterfield County. The proposed parking lot will consist of 163 perpendicular parking spaces on 2.65 acres and will be accessible from Martin Luther King Drive. The parking lot will serve to supplement parking resources for the Gateway II Residence Hall, which is currently undergoing construction and is anticipated to be completed in August 2012. The surface pavement will be comprised of traditional non-porous asphalt. Lights, sidewalks, landscaping, and a perimeter fence will be constructed around the parking lot. Stormwater from the parking lot will be collected and treated by Filterra Bioretention Systems before flowing into an underground SWM. The project site presently contains an office/warehouse structure and is being utilized as an unimproved parking lot for employees of the general contractor for the Gateway II Residence Hall construction project. A portion of the parking lot is currently surfaced with gravel and the remainder has been denuded as a result of past and present uses associated with vehicular parking.
The Department of Interior (DOI) Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) has submitted a Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) to evaluate potential environmental effects of multiple Geological and Geophysical (G&G) activities in the Mid- and South Atlantic Planning Areas of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). These activities include, but are not limited to, seismic surveys, sidescan-sonar surveys, electromagnetic surveys, geological and geochemical sampling, and remote sensing. The Draft PEIS considers G&G activities for the three program areas managed by BOEM: (1) Oil and gas exploration and development; (2) renewable energy; and (3) marine minerals.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposes to provide funding under the Self-help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP) to the Hanover Habitat for Humanity for the construction of a single family home in Hanover County. SHOP grant funds are awarded to eligible national and regional non-profit organizations and consortia to purchase home sites and develop or improve the infrastructure needed for volunteer-based homeownership programs for low-income persons and families. The Hanover Habitat proposes to construct a 1,500 square foot residence on 1.77 acres of undeveloped property located on Pleasant Grove Road. Other project activities include the installation of a water supply well, septic system and landscaping to include an entrance driveway. HUD finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Virginia Community College System submitted an environmental impact report (EIR) for construction related to the renovation of the Student Life Center building on the Virginia Western Community College in Roanoke. Construction projects include an exterior stairway and terrace. 12-070S
The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services submitted an environmental impact report for construction associated with the renovation of Building #9 at Central Virginia Training Center in Amherst County. Exterior construction projects include expanding the kitchen facility and constructing a new utility building. 12-069S
The College of William and Mary submitted an environmental impact report for the construction of the third phase of the Integrated Science Center on its campus in Williamsburg. The proposed building will be approximately 113,000 gross square feet of classrooms, lecture halls, office space, laboratories and laboratory support space. The project also will include the addition of a greenhouse on the roof of an existing building and renovation of the south façade of the existing second part of the Integrated Science Center. Once the new building is operational, the existing Millington Hall will be demolished and the site will be restored. 12-068F
The Coast Guard intends to promulgate a regulation to establish a safety zone for the Town of Cape Charles Fireworks Show, scheduled for July 4, 2012 from 9 to 10 PM. The safety zone is needed to protect mariners and spectators from fireworks display hazards such as accidental discharge, falling embers or debris, or dangerous projectiles. The safety zone will include all the waters of Cape Charles Harbor within a 375-foot radius of 37-15-46 N/076-01-30W. The Coast Guard states that the event will have no effect on the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Plan. 12-067F
The Coast Guard intends to establish a safety zone in the Elizabeth River in Norfolk, to allow a helicopter air show on May 16, 2012 from 6 PM to 6:05 PM. The safety zone is to protect mariners and the public transiting the river immediately below the air show from hazards associated with the show. The coordinates of the safety zone are: 36-50-54 N/076-17-48 W; 36-50-48 N/076-18-12 W; 36-50-36 N/076-18-6 W; and 36-50-42 N/076-17-48 W. The Coast Guard requests an expedited review due to the last-minute request of the event sponsors. The Coast Guard states that the event will have no effect on the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Plan.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposes to provide mortgage insurance through the Condominium Ownership Mortgage Insurance program (24 CFR, Part 234) to The Dragas Companies for the Grove at the Arboretum, a proposed residential development located off Green Tree road in the City of Chesapeake. The project involves the construction of 112 two-story condominiums, pool, clubhouse, pond and walking trails on a 10.75-acre site. The Dragas Companies has submitted a federal consistency determination on HUD’s behalf that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The National Park Service has published a single management plan for the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail (in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia) and for the Star-Spangled Banner Scenic Byway (in Maryland). As a trail management plan, the CMP includes findings and recommended actions required by the National Trails System Act, as amended. Two alternatives are presented: Alternative 1, current management, and Alternative 3, the preferred “War of 1812 in the Chesapeake” alternative. Alternative 2, “Chesapeake Campaign of Summer 1814,” was dismissed following early public review and comment. Alternative 1 contemplates current management in regard to resource protection, partnerships for trail maintenance and enhancement of recreation opportunities, and use of existing trail resources and sites. Alternative 3 contemplates more ambitious efforts at interpretation and education, trail enhancement, signage, and provision of visitor services as well as protection of trail resources.
The Department of the Army submitted an environmental assessment to address the proposal to modify the restricted airspace over Fort A.P. Hill in Caroline County. The current restriction extends to an altitude of 5,000 feet above mean sea level (msl). The proposed restricted area would be divided into three shelves: a) surface to 4,500 feet msl, b) 4,501 feet msl to 7,500 feet msl, and c) 7,501 feet msl to 9,000 feet msl. The modification would prevent public use of the lowest shelf during certain times and other time with 24 hours advanced notice. The two other shelves would be activated with 24 hours advanced notice. The change in airspace would not alter the frequency or type of training currently conducted at Fort A.P. Hill. 12-063S
George Mason University (GMU) proposes to construct an addition to the Fenwick Library on the East Campus of George Mason University in Fairfax County. The addition will include approximately 146,000 gross square feet of space to the south elevation of the library. Chesapeake Lane, a service drive for the library, approaches the site from the north and south and is currently disconnected. Project activities include the connection of the two approaches.
George Mason University (GMU) proposes to construct Housing 8 B in the northwest area of the East Campus of George Mason University in Fairfax County. The Housing 8 B project will eventually provide for approximately 900 beds, but for financial and physical size reasons, it has been divided into two (possibly three) projects on two or three different sites. The project under consideration will provide for an additional 300 beds to the Fairfax Campus residence inventory. The site(s) for the remaining approximately 600 beds have not yet been identified. This first phase of the proposed 900 bed build-out is called Housing 8 B Shenandoah. The project site currently consists of a paved parking lot serving Liberty Square, Potomac Heights, and a recently erected greenhouse. The project will include alterations to the existing parking, vehicular traffic pattern, walkway system and the previously developed environment to enhance the pedestrian experience. 12-061S
Christopher Newport University (CNU) submitted an environmental impact report for the construction of a new entrance and interior roads to the CNU campus in Newport News. The entrance will be located just north of the traffic circle on the Avenue of the Arts. The proposed project site is approximately 31,000 square feet and contains asphalt-paved roadways and paver walkways. 12-060F
USDA-APHIS-WS (hereinafter “WS”) intends to continue its current integrated approach to mammal damage management in Virginia. WS responds to requests for assistance to reduce and prevent damage associated with mammals to four categories of impact areas: agricultural resources, natural resources, property, and human safety threats. These arise from the adaptation of some species to habitats altered by humans. The new EA addresses changes in the need for action and the affected environment since a more limited EA was developed in 2000.
The George Mason University (GMU) proposes to construct the West Campus connector Road (Campus Drive) between the main and west campuses in Fairfax County. The road will connect Braddock Road with Patriot Circle via West Campus and a tunnel below Route 123 (Ox Road). The project limits of disturbance are estimated to be 28 acres across a narrow strip that will consist of a two-lane road with bicycle and pedestrian access. Portions of the project area are currently utilized as parking areas, open areas, foot paths, bike/vehicular paths, tennis courts, landscaped areas, and the edges of wooded areas. The intent of the connector road is to reduce traffic congestion at several intersections in and around the campus, and provide a more efficient and safe means for students to access parking, classes, and activities.
The U.S. Coast Guard intends to promulgate a regulation for the establishment of a temporary safety zone for the Cavalier Golf & Yacht Club Independence Day Fireworks, to be enforced between 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM on July 1, 2012. The safety zone will include all waters of Broad Bay, Virginia Beach, within a 400-yard radius of approximate position 36-52-08N/076-00-46W on the shoreline near the Cavalier Golf and Yacht Club. The purpose of the safety zone is to protect mariners and spectators from the hazards associated with fireworks displays, such as accidental discharge, dangerous projectiles, and falling hot embers or other debris. No buoys will be placed or structures built. The Coast Guard certifies that the proposed activities will have no effect on the coastal uses (except for temporary use of the waterway) or coastal resources of the Commonwealth and are consistent with the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Capital Region Airport Commission (Airport Commission) proposes to make improvements to security gate and fencing at the Richmond International Airport in Henrico County. The proposed improvements include upgrades to three perimeter security gates and two sections of security fence. Project elements include: Gate N5-remove existing swing gate, install new automatic slide gate, install fiber optic control, add area lighting and security cameras; Gate N15-relocate existing automatic gate, approximately 50 feet west, reconnect existing fiber optic control, and add area lighting and security camera; Gate S5-upgrade existing automatic gate, install fiber optic control from the AMF to gate, add area lighting and security cameras; South Fence-remove approximately 5,000 feet of existing fence and install a new 8-foot AOA fence along Portugee Road between the Airport Maintenance Facility and the Army National Guard facility; and North Fence-remove approximately 1,600 feet of existing fence and install a new 8-foot AOA fence. The Airport Commission has submitted a Federal Consistency Certification that finds the proposed action consistent with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) proposes to provide mortgage insurance under HUD Section 221(d)(4) to Berkadia Commercial Mortgage, LLC, for the construction of the proposed Pine Tree Apartments in the City of Petersburg. The Section 221(d)(4) program provides mortgage insurance for multifamily rental housing for moderate-income families. The proposed Pine Tree Apartments is intended to provide for the establishment of a mixed-use community the construction of a two-building, 48-unit multi-family apartment complex. The property consists of approximately 2.08 acres of undeveloped wooded land and is bounded by County Drive, undeveloped land and agricultural land to the north; Crowder Memorial Baptist Church to the east; undeveloped wooded land to the south; and Pinetree Drive and undeveloped wooded land to the west. Utilities have been observed in the vicinity of the subject property. HUD has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The George Mason University (GMU) proposes to make improvements to Roanoke River Road located at the southwest portion main campus in Fairfax County. Project activities include the widening of the existing three-vehicle and one bike lane road to five vehicle lanes and one bike lane. GMU will coordinate with Fairfax County and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) in a larger effort to improve the intersection of Braddock Road and Roanoke River road and lengthen the Braddock Road eastbound left turn lane to Roanoke River Road by approximately 400 feet. The purpose of the project is to reduce traffic congestion at the intersection. 12-054S
The Virginia Department of Military Affairs (DMA) submitted an environmental assessment (EA) for the construction of and training at an urban combat training facility at Fort Pickett located in Nottoway County. The property on which the project is proposed is managed by the Virginia Army National Guard. DMA submitted the EA to fulfill the requirements of the environmental impact review law. The proposed project site consists of approximately 125 acres of mostly wooded property. The central portion of the site is without trees and has been previously disturbed. 12-053F
The U.S. Coast Guard intends to promulgate a regulation for the establishment of a Special Local Regulation and issue a CG-4423 Permit for Marine Event to the City of Hampton and the Virginia Air and Space Center, the event sponsors for the 13th Annual Hampton Blackbeard Festival. The Festival is to be held in the Hampton River, between Settlers Landing Docks and the Hampton Yacht Club, on June 1 through 3 between noon and 4:30 PM. The event consists of several pirate ships re-enacting pirate ship battles. Buoys will be placed to mark spectator vessel anchorages; no structures will be built. The Coast Guard certifies that the proposed activities will have no effect on the coastal uses (except for temporary use of the waterway) or coastal resources of the Commonwealth and are consistent with the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Coast Guard proposes to issue a CG-4423 Permit for Marine Event to the Virginia Commonwealth University Crew Club, the event sponsor for the Rocketts Landing Sprint Regatta, to be held in the James River in Richmond on June 23, 2012 between 9 AM and 2 PM. Approximately 40 boats, all scull type without mechanical propulsion, are expected to participate. Rocketts Landing Boat House will serve as the entry point; the race will take place between positions 37-30-02 N/077-25-16 W and 37-31-12 N/077-25-02 W. The Coast Guard certifies that the proposed activity complies with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program and will be conducted in a manner consistent with same.
The Coast Guard proposes to promulgate a regulation to establish a special local regulation and issue a CG-4423 Permit for Marine Event to the York County Department of Recreation, Parks, and Tourism, the event sponsor for the York County Parade of Sail, to be held in the York River in York County on June 2, 2012 between noon and 2 PM. The regulated area includes all waters of the York River bounded by the river’s north and south shores; to the west by the Coleman Memorial Bridge; and to the east by a line drawn from the United States Coast Guard pier to Gains Point in Gloucester County. The Coast Guard will establish a Special Local Regulation, which is promulgated to promote safety on the navigable waters immediately before, during, and after a marine event. 12-050F The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), Wildlife Services (WS) program, in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) propose to implement management measures to reduce black vulture (Coragyps atratus) and turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) damage to property, agricultural resources, and threats to public health and safety in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The need for action to manage damage and threats associated with vultures in Virginia arises from requests for assistance received by USDA to reduce and prevent damage associated with vultures from occurring to four major categories: agricultural resources, property, and threats to human safety. The proposed action includes the use of non-lethal and lethal methods in an integrated approach to resolving requests for assistance associated with vultures in the Commonwealth. The non-lethal methods proposed include, but are not limited to: habitat/behavior modification, effigies, visual deterrents, live traps, exclusionary devices, frightening devices, paintballs, and nets. Lethal methods considered to address vulture damage include: live-capture followed by euthanasia, shooting, and nest/egg destruction. Most requests for assistance received by USDA are associated with black vultures or with mixed flocks of vultures that are dominated by the presence of black vultures. USDA anticipates that up to 2,500 black vultures could be lethally removed annually in the Commonwealth. USDA also anticipates an increase in the need to non-lethally harass and disperse vultures as part of the increasing requests for assistance. The USDA has submitted a Supplemental Environmental Assessment for the proposed action. In addition, the USDA has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Coast Guard proposes to promulgate a regulation to establish a special local regulation and issue a CG-4423 Permit for Marine Event to the Chesapeake Bay Watermen’s Association, the sponsor for the 2012 Chesapeake Bay Workboat Race. This race is to be held on Back River near Messick Point in the City of Poquoson, York County, on June 24, 2012 from 11 AM to 5 PM. Approximately 60 boats are expected to participate in the race. The regulated area includes all waters of the Back River, bounded to the north by a line drawn along latitude 30-06-30 N; to the east by a line drawn along longitude 076-18-52; and to the west by a line drawn along longitude 076-19-30. The Coast Guard will establish a Special Local Regulation, which is promulgated to promote safety on the navigable waters immediately before, during, and after a marine event. The Coast Guard states that the event will have no negative effects on listed wildlife species. 12-048S
The State Corporation Commission (SCC) has asked DEQ to conduct a coordinated review of an application for approval and certification of electrical transmission lines by Appalachian Power Company (APCo). APCo plans to construct approximately 7.5 miles of new 138 kilovolt (kV) transmission line in Montgomery County and the Town of Christiansburg. The line will be built between its existing Falling Branch and Merrimac substations. A 100-foot wide right-of-way will be required for construction and operation of most of the proposed line. 12-047F
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) proposes to reissue 48 of the 49 existing nationwide permits (NWPs), general conditions and definitions, with some modifications. The Corps is also issuing two new NWPs, three new general conditions, and three new definitions. The Corps issues NWPs to authorize certain activities that require Department of the Army permits under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and/or Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899. Authorizations apply to activities such as aids to navigation, utility lines, bank stabilization, road crossings, stream and wetland restoration, residential developments, mining, commercial shellfish aquaculture, and agricultural. The NWPs are intended to protect the aquatic environment and the public interest while effectively authorizing activities that have minimal individual and cumulative adverse effects on the aquatic environment. In addition, it is sometimes necessary to add regional conditions to NWPs to address state water quality standards and to be consistent with state coastal zone management plans. Accordingly, the Corps Norfolk District has submitted regional conditions for Virginia that are applicable to specific NWPS. The NWPs and regional conditions are issued for a period of five years. The reissued NWPs and regional conditions will be effective beginning March 19, 2012 to March 18, 2017. The Corps has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. 12-046F
The Department of the Navy (Navy), Undersea Defensive Warfare Systems Program Office (PMS 415) of the Naval Sea Systems Command proposes to conduct testing of a Signal Analysis System (SAS) at Naval Station Norfolk (NSN), Northrop‐Grumman Newport News Shipyard (NGSB‐NN) and Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY). The proposed action is to conduct pierside testing of the SAS on U.S. Navy submarines after system installation, repair or upgrade and prior to transfer of the vessel to the Fleet for operational use when going to sea. A pierside test event would include a transducer element check and an Outboard Transducer Array Assembly (OTAA) self‐test. An OTAA is an acoustic sensor and transmitter. Four OTAAs which make up the SAS are installed on the submarine (two on each side). The test would consist of 116 transmissions per OTAA, with very short individual pulses. During the reception test, a portable commercial transducer would be deployed off of a small boat or from a pier and would transmit to the system OTAAs to verify receipt of incoming signals from the deployed transducer. This test consists of a total of approximately 2,700 transmissions. During pierside testing, the test platform would be the submarine. In instances when a reception test is required, a small boat may participate in a test event. The small boat would deploy a commercial transducer and actively transmit acoustic data to the test submarine. A pierside test would be completed during daytime only in a single day. Active sonar transmission during transducer element check would last no longer than fifteen minutes and the OTAA self‐test would last no longer than seven seconds. Active sonar transmission during the reception test would last no longer than one hour. The number of tests at any of the three proposed test locations would not exceed two test events per year. The Navy has submitted a Negative Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The U.S. Marine Corps proposes to construct a two-lane access road, approximately 0.3 mile long, with ingress approximately 0.4 mile south of the existing main entry of the Quantico Marine Base in Prince William County. The access road would run from the Semper Fidelis Chapel to U.S. Route 1. A museum overlook with ten parking spaces and a wheelchair-accessible sidewalk would be situated approximately 300 feet south of the Chapel. The Marine Corps anticipates that the Virginia Department of Transportation and Prince William County would provide turn lanes on Route 1 to allow access to the Parkway. The Marine Corps states that the project will be in compliance with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Resources Management Program. 12-044F
The U.S. Marine Corps proposes to widen the two-lane Russell Road to four lanes between the Marine Federal Credit Union (Building 3380) to the Marine Corps Combat Development Command Headquarters (Building 3300) on the Quantico Marine Base in Prince William County. A left-turn lane to Building 3300 would also be added. The purpose of the project is to improve peak-hour traffic on the road, which leads in to the base from Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 1. The Marine Corps states that the project will be in compliance with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Resources Management Program.
The Virginia Port Authority is proposing to construct a bulk storage warehouse in two phases at the Portsmouth Marine Terminal in Portsmouth. If completely constructed, the environmental impact report indicates that the building would be 500,000 square feet in area. The initial phase will include construction of 250,000 square feet to provide temporary storage for rubber, paper and other products. Open bay storage will occupy most of the building, which will also include offices, bathrooms and a 2,500-square-foot forklift maintenance area. A rail line connecting the existing track near Pinners Point to the CSX rail yard near the southern end of the terminal also will be constructed. 12-042S
Christopher Newport University (CNU) proposes to construct a building to house a band room on its campus in Newport News. The proposed two-story building will have a footprint of approximately 10,761 square feet. The site currently consists of two brick buildings (gymnasiums), a courtyard and an open lawn. 12-041F
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Eastern Federal Lands Highway Division (EFLHD), in cooperation with the National Park Service (NPS), proposes to make emergency repairs to the South Fork Timber Bridge at the Prince William Forest Park in Prince William County. The project will include replacement of seven timbers that make up the timber truss bridge. To replace the timber members, eight temporary support structures would be constructed which would temporarily impact the stream. Material for the support structures would be lowered to the stream from the bridge deck. No mechanized equipment will be used in the stream bed, and dewatering of the stream will not be required. FHWA has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. 12-040S
The Department of State Police submitted an environmental impact report (EIR) for the construction of a 199-foot self-supporting communications tower in Nottoway County. The EIR indicates that an equipment shelter compound will be constructed along with the tower to support the Statewide Agency Radio System (STARS) at the DSP driver training facility site on Ridge Road. The property is owned by DSP at its campus at Fort Pickett. 12-039F
The Federal Aviation Administration submitted a federal consistency document for the construction of the Eastern Corporate Complex at Middle Peninsula Airport. 12-038F
Columbia Gas Transmission, LLC (Columbia) proposes to construct Line VM-109 Gateway Project (Project) in Chesterfield County, under a Blanket Certificate issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in accordance 18 CFR 157.208. The project consists of the installation of 1.3 miles of new 24-inch outside diameter (OD) natural gas pipeline as an extension to the existing Line VM-109. The new loop will be installed parallel to an existing 24-inch natural gas pipeline, Line VM-108, within the existing, maintained 60-foot wide right-of-way (ROW). Additional project components include two access roads, one proposed staging area, and two proposed wareyard/pipeyard areas. The new loop is designed to provide an additional 15 MDth/d of firm transportation capacity to existing Points of Delivery with Columbia Gas of Virginia and Virginia Natural Gas from Columbia’s existing interconnect with Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corporation (Transco) at Boswells Tavern. Columbia anticipates project construction to begin in September 2012 and the facilities to be placed in-service no later than November 1, 2012. Columbia has submitted a Federal Consistency Certification that finds the proposed action consistent with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The University of Virginia (UVA) submitted an environmental impact report for the installation of an electrical duct bank along Emmet Street on its campus in the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle County. UVA proposes for 1,500 feet of the duct bank to be installed on the east site of Emmet Street, then cross underneath and continue underneath the sidewalk on the west side of Emmet Street. When the duct bank crosses the street, repairs also will be made to replace aging hot water lines. 12-036S
The Department of State Police (DSP) submitted a Part 2 environmental impact report (EIR) for the construction of a DSP Bureau of Criminal Investigation building in Russell County. The proposed project site is a 2.4 acre undeveloped lot. Approximately 1 acre will be cleared during construction. The building will be 3,200 square feet. The review of the Part 1 EIR (DEQ 11-156S) was completed in October 2011. 12-035S
The University of Virginia proposes to expand the existing University Cemetery to allow for additional crypt and columbarium space. The expansion is based on a master plan from 2004. The expansion will cover an area of approximately 80 feet by 45 feet, allowing for the addition of 84 double depth crypts and approximately 126 columbarium units. The proposed project site is used currently as a nursery staging area by the landscape department. 12-034F
The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) will recommend a proposed rule to amend the regulations that implement the National Saltwater Angler Registry and State Exemption Program (NSAR). The regulations establish the requirements and procedures for anglers, spear fishers and for-hire fishing vessels to register with NMFS unless exempt from the registration requirement. The NSAR regulations also establish the requirements and procedures whereby states may be designated as Exempted States. The anglers and for-hire fishing vessels licensed or registered by Exempted States, and those anglers and vessels that are not required to be licensed or registered under the laws of such states, are not required to register with NMFS. NMFS proposes to revise the rule as follows: 1) eliminate duplicative permitting and registration requirement for holders of Main Hawaiian Islands Non-commercial Bottomfish Permits: 2) provide that states that exempt minors under the age of 17 form the state license or registration requirements will be eligible for Exempted State designation; 3) allow for the designation of the U.S. Virgin Islands as an Exempted State under the qualifying regional survey option of the rule: and 4) clarify and update various provisions of the rule. The NMFS has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed rule consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Coast Guard proposes to promulgate a regulation to establish a safety zone to support the Virginia Beach Oceanfront Fireworks Show, to be held along the Atlantic coastline of Virginia Beach on April 28, 2012 from 9 PM to 11 PM. The safety zone, in which entry will be prohibited during the show, will include all Atlantic Ocean waters off 20th Street in Virginia Beach within a 350-yard radius of position 36-51-12 N/075-58-06 W. The safety zone will protect mariners and spectators from the hazards associated with the fireworks display. Entry into the safety zone will be prohibited during the show. The Coast Guard states that the activities will be in compliance with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Resources Management Program. 12-032F
The Coast Guard proposes to promulgate a regulation to establish a safety zone along the lower James River in Richmond for a “Memorial Day Fireworks Show” to be held on May 27, 2012 from 8 PM to 10 PM. The safety zone, an area with a 420-foot radius from the position 36-57-21 N/076-15-00 W, will protect mariners and spectators from the hazards associated with the fireworks display. Entry into the safety zone will be prohibited during the show.
The Middlesex County Airport Committee proposes to install an Automated Weather Observing System III (AWOS-III) at the county’s Hummel Field Airport located at 310 Plainview Road (Route 663), Topping, in Middlesex County. AWOS, as defined by the Federal Aviation Administration, is a suite of weather sensors, which measure, collect and disseminate weather data to help meteorologists, pilots and flight dispatchers prepare and monitor weather forecasts, plan flight routes, and provide necessary information for correct takeoffs and landings. The Airport Committee has submitted a Federal Consistency Certification that finds the proposed action consistent with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps), Norfolk District proposes to revise and reissue Regional Permit 20. Regional Permit (RP) 20 (11-RP-20) authorizes the creation of artificial reefs and dredging of old shellfish reefs, when the material will be used to create new or enhance old reefs owned, operated or managed by the Commonwealth of Virginia. The intent of the Regional Permit is to provide a streamlined permitting process for listed activities that do not adversely affect general navigation and the aquatic environment. The permit is authorized by the Secretary of the Army and the Chief of Engineers pursuant to Section 10 of the River and Harbors Act of 1899 (33 U.S.C. 403) and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344) to create artificial reefs and to dredge historical shellfish reefs when the material will be used for the construction of new reefs into waters of the Commonwealth of Virginia and waters of the United States provided the project complies with the provisions and conditions set forth in the permit. The Corps has submitted a Federal Consistency Determination that finds the proposed action consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
The Coast Guard proposes to establish a safety zone to support the Virginia Beach Oceanfront Air Show, to be held along the Atlantic coastline of Virginia Beach from May 31 through June 3,, 2012, 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM each day. The show is to be sponsored by the U.S. Navy as a commemoration of the War of 1812. The safety zone, to which access will be temporarily restricted, is a rectangle, defined by four points, the coordinates of which are: 36-00-00 N/075-57-36 W, 36-51-36 N/075-57-36 W, 36-49-48 N/075-57-00 W, and 36-49-45 N/075-57-36 W. The safety zone will protect mariners and people traveling on the Atlantic Ocean below the air show from hazards associated with the show. The Coast Guard states that the activities will be in compliance with the enforceable policies of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program. MyDEQ