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1i <br />* <br />3 <br />The existing impervious surface of NC 54 in <br />Section C is approximately 31 acres. The <br />widening project would increase the impervious <br />surface area by 50 percent to 46 acres. <br />3. One site identified in the Natural Areas <br />Inventory is located south of NO 54. Where Cane <br />Creek crosses the highway, three types of <br />habitats are found: a riparian strip; a steep, <br />dry, west-facing bluff; and mesic slopes. <br />Several important animal species are found in <br />the habitats, including the State-listed <br />notched rainbow mussel, the regionally-rare <br />otter, and a large roost of black vultures <br />Because this is one of the most important <br />wildlife corridors in the county, potential <br />impacts to plant/animal species should be <br />mitigated and the highway designed to permit <br />the movement of wildlife from one side to <br />another. <br />4. One National Register site, the Inn at Bingham <br />School, may be impacted by widening on the <br />north side. The site is located on the <br />northeast corner of NC 54 and Mebane Oaks Road, <br />and contains a mid-19th century Greek Revival <br />house and outbuildings' A determination should <br />be made as to whether or not the Section 106 <br />review process will apply. If applicable, NCDOT <br />should comply with the provisions of that act. <br />5. Three major drainages tributaries, Cane Creek, <br />Collins Creek, and Morgan Creek, and their <br />floodplains cross NC 54. If there are wetlands <br />associated with these floodplains, 404 permits, <br />if required, should be obtained from the Corps <br />of Engineers before construction begins. <br />6. OWASA and American Stone Company have discussed <br />plans to expand the quarry on NC 54. NCDOT <br />should contact both organizations to determine <br />the impact, if any, of the widening project on <br />quarry expansion. <br />In conclusion, the NCDOT planning/environmental <br />document may satisfy the environmental assessment <br />required by the Orange County Environmental Impact <br />Ordinance. The document must be submitted to the <br />Planning Staff for review and determination as to <br />whether a full environmental impact statement would <br />be required. <br />At its October 15, 1990 meeting, the Planning Board <br />considered the feasibility study. In addition to the <br />