Categorical Exclusion Form (NEPA)_CE_Sch B_Hwy-267.pdf

CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION

Emergency Relief Program Landslide Correction

STATE ROAD PR-155

KM. 30.10 @30.20

OROCOVIS, PUERTO RICO

AC-816544

November 2019

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority

Emergency Relief Program Landslide Correction

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority Categorical Exclusion Action Classification Form ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………… 3

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

III. PURPOSE AND NEED

IV. PLANNING CONSISTENCY PHASE I

V. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS

VI. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES EVALUATED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION

VII. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS REQUIRED FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT

APPENDIXES

Appendix A Emergency Declared Documents Appendix B Emergency Relief Program Funds DDIR document Appendix C Figures, Maps and Plans Appendix D US Fish and Wildlife Service Coordination Appendix E State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) Coordination Appendix F Categorical Exclusion Checklist

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

PUERTO RICO HIGHWAY AND TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY

CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION ACTION CLASSIFICATION FORM

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

State Project No. AC-816544 Federal Project No. ER-HWY-267

Project Name Emergency Relief Program Landslide Correction PR-155

ER-HWY-267

Route No. PR-155

From Milepost 30.10 To Milepost 30.20

Municipality: Orocovis Length 1.48 Km

ROW Cost To be determined Construction Cost $364,382.00

EXISTING FACILITY PROPOSED FACILITY

ROW Width 6.60m ROW Width 15.0 m

No. Lanes & Width 2 lanes, 3.30 mts.

each

No. Lanes & Width 2 lanes, 3.60 mts.

each

Shoulder Width

0 mts. Median 0 mts.

Shoulder

Width (variable)

1.20 mts –

2.4 mts

Median 0 mts.

Overall Roadway Width 6.60 mts. Overall Roadway Width 7.20 mts.

II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Proposed Action On September 2017, Hurricane Irma and Maria impacted the islands of Puerto Rico, Vieques & Culebra. The Governor Hon. Ricardo Rosselló and the President Donald Trump, declared a state of emergency in the archipelago pursuant to the Robert Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistant Act (public Law 100- 707). See referenced documents enclosed in Appendix A. State Road PR-115 was one of the affected roadways in the Municipality of Morovis

The Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority (PRHTA) proposes the reconstruction and repair of the following PR-155 roadway segment:

Project ID Road Segment

ER-HWY-267 PR-155 Km 30.10 & Km 30.20

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

The proposed project will be financed with funds from the Federal Highway Emergency Relief Program (ER- Program) associated to Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Enclosed is the signed DDIR concurred document (Appendix B).

The PRHTA understands that the proposed action complies with the definition of a Categorical Exclusion (CE). CE are actions which meet the definition contained in the Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ) Regulations (40 CFR 1508.4) and FHWA - Department of Transportation Regulations( 23 CFR 771.115 (b)), and, based on past experience with similar actions, do not involve significant environmental impacts. They are actions which: do not induce significant impacts to planned growth or land use for the area; do not require the relocation of significant numbers of people; do not have a significant impact on any natural, cultural, recreational, historic or other resource; do not involve significant air, noise, or water quality impacts; do not have significant impacts on travel patterns; or do not otherwise, either individually or cumulatively, have any significant environmental impacts.

Location

The proposed action extends along State Road PR-155, kms. 30.1 & km 30.2, in the Municipality of Orocovis.

The Lambert coordinates for the areas are:

Area 1 PR-155 Kms. 30.10 & Km. 30.2 (X=203847.876, Y= 244628.805)

The locations of the proposed project are shown in Appendix C, Figure No.1, Project Location Map

Existing Conditions

Heavy rains from the weather events triggered several landslides along existing PR-155. The existing condition for the affected area is described below:

PR-155 Km. 30.1 toKm. 30.2 (ER-HWY-267)

Proposed Project

The proposed project consists in the reconstruction of the roadway segment by constructing a new pavement structure and widening the section to two (2) 3.60 meter-wide lanes with variable width shoulders (1.2 – 2.4 mts) on both sides and the construction of an 84.3 meter-long variable height earth retention system from Sta 1+20.00 to Sta 2+04.50 to stabilize the areas where the landslides occurred.

The proposed works will also include improvements to the drainage system (construction of concrete chutes, culverts, manholes and inlets), construction of a concrete barrier, installation of protective measures for erosion control and the replacement of safety features such as guardrails, pavement markings and traffic signs.

Design drawings showing the typical sections of the PR-155, ROW limits, Land acquisitions, and proposed repairs are included in Appendix C.

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

III. PURPOSE AND NEED

Purpose The purpose of the Project is to reconstruct the PR-155 roadway segment affected by the landslides to ensure the safety of this vital transportation corridor. Stabilizing the roadway embankment and slopes and improving the drainage system would provide resilience to the roadway to endure a similar event in the future and will ensure life and properties in the area.

Need The proposed project is needed for the following reasons:

• The roadway segment is in poor conditions due to the landslides and would keep deteriorating if reconstruction works are not carried out.

• The existing conditions could cause a failure of the roadway section.

• The roadway is an important corridor for local traffic and this condition is generating a safety hazard for the traffic

The gabion wall was designed to protect the roadway embankment more efficiently and with the lowest cost when compare with other studied alternatives. The flexibility of the gabion wall will provide for the reduction of water velocity and dissipates its energy reducing soil erosion beyond the discharging points.

Efforts have been made to build the wall with the least impact to the adjacent properties.

IV. PLANNING CONSISTENCY PHASE I

Estimated construction time: 4 - 6 months

Estimated Construction Cost: $364,382.00

Estimated date for ROW: First Semester 2020

Estimated date for PS&E: First Semester 2020

Estimated date for Construction phase begins: First Semester 2020

Project STIP Consistency: This Project will be financed with funds from the Emergency Relief Program associated to Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Enclosed is the approved DDIR document (Appendix B).

V. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS

• 771.115 Classes of actions.

(b) Class II (CEs). Actions that do not individually or cumulatively have a significant environmental effect are excluded from the requirement to prepare an EA or EIS. A specific list of CEs normally not requiring NEPA documentation is set forth in §771.117(c) for FHWA actions or pursuant to §771.118(c) for FTA actions. When appropriately documented, additional projects may also

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico qualify as CEs pursuant to §771.117(d) for FHWA actions or pursuant to §771.118(d) for FTA actions.

• 771.117 FHWA Categorical Exclusions.

(a) Categorical exclusions (CEs) are actions which meet the definition contained in 40 CFR 1508.4, and, based on past experience with similar actions; do not involve significant environmental impacts. They are actions which: do not induce significant impacts to planned growth or land use for the area; do not require the relocation of significant numbers of people; do not have a significant impact on any natural, cultural, recreational, historic or other resource; do not involve significant air, noise, or water quality impacts; do not have significant impacts on travel patterns;

or do not otherwise, either individually or cumulatively, have any significant environmental impacts.

(c) The following actions meet the criteria for CEs in the CEQ regulations (40 CFR 1508.4) and 771.117(a) and normally do not require any further NEPA approvals by the FHWA:

Check one or more of the following improvements which apply to the project:

(1) Activities which do not involve or lead directly to construction, such as planning and research activities; grants for training; engineering to define the elements of a proposed action or alternatives so that social, economic, and environmental effects can be assessed; and Federal-aid system revisions which establish classes of highways on the Federal-aid highway system.

(2) Approval of utility installations along or across a transportation facility.

(3) Construction of bicycle and pedestrian lanes, paths, and facilities.

(4) Activities included in the State's highway safety plan under 23 U.S.C. 402.

(5) Transfer of Federal lands pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 107(d) and/or 23 U.S.C. 317 when the land transfer is in support of an action that is not otherwise subject to FHWA review under NEPA.

(6) The installation of noise barriers or alterations to existing publicly owned buildings to provide for noise reduction.

(7) Landscaping.

(8) Installation of fencing, signs, pavement markings, small passenger shelters, traffic signals, and railroad warning devices where no substantial land acquisition or traffic disruption would occur.

(9) The following actions for transportation facilities damaged by an incident resulting in an emergency declared by the Governor of the State and concurred in by the Secretary, or a disaster or emergency declared by the President pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Act (42 U.S.C. 5121):

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

(i) Emergency repairs under 23 U.S.C. 125; and

(ii) The repair, reconstruction, restoration, retrofitting, or replacement of any road, highway, bridge, tunnel, or transit facility (such as a ferry dock or bus transfer station), including ancillary transportation facilities (such as pedestrian/bicycle paths and bike lanes), that is in operation or under construction when damaged and the action:

(A) Occurs within the existing right-of-way and in a manner that substantially conforms to the preexisting design, function, and location as the original (which may include upgrades to meet existing codes and standards as well as upgrades warranted to address conditions that have changed since the original construction); and

(B) Is commenced within a 2-year period beginning on the date of the declaration.

(10) Acquisition of scenic easements.

(11) Determination of payback under 23 U.S.C. 156 for property previously acquired with Federal-aid participation.

(12) Improvements to existing rest areas and truck weigh stations.

(13) Ridesharing activities.

(14) Bus and rail car rehabilitation.

(15) Alterations to facilities or vehicles in order to make them accessible for elderly and handicapped persons.

(16) Program administration, technical assistance activities, and operating assistance to transit authorities to continue existing service or increase service to meet routine changes in demand.

(17) The purchase of vehicles by the applicant where the use of these vehicles can be accommodated by existing facilities or by new facilities which themselves are within a CE.

(18) Track and railbed maintenance and improvements when carried out within the existing right-of-way.

(19) Purchase and installation of operating or maintenance equipment to be located within the transit facility and with no significant impacts off the site.

(20) Promulgation of rules, regulations, and directives.

(21) Deployment of electronics, photonics, communications, or information processing used singly or in combination, or as components of a fully integrated system, to improve the efficiency or safety of a surface transportation system or to enhance security or passenger convenience.

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

Examples include, but are not limited to, traffic control and detector devices, lane management systems, electronic payment equipment, automatic vehicle locaters, automated passenger counters, computer-aided dispatching systems, radio communications systems, dynamic message signs, and security equipment including surveillance and detection cameras on roadways and in transit facilities and on buses.

(22) Projects, as defined in 23 U.S.C. 101, that would take place entirely within the existing operational right-of-way. Existing operational right-of-way refers to the right-of-way that has been disturbed for an existing transportation facility or is maintained for a transportation purpose. This area includes the features associated with the physical footprint of the transportation facility (including the roadway, bridges, interchanges, culverts, drainage, fixed guideways, mitigation areas, etc.) and other areas maintained for transportation purposes such as clear zone, traffic control signage, landscaping, any rest areas with direct access to a controlled-access highway, areas maintained for safety and security of a transportation facility, parking facilities with direct access to an existing transportation facility, transit power substations, transit venting structures, and transit maintenance facilities. Portions of the right-of-way that have not been disturbed or that are not maintained for transportation purposes are not in the existing operational right-of-way.

(23) Federally-funded projects:

(i) That receive less than $5,000,000 of Federal funds; or

(ii) With a total estimated cost of not more than $30,000,000 and Federal funds comprising less than 15 percent of the total estimated project cost.

(24) Localized geotechnical and other investigation to provide information for preliminary design and for environmental analyses and permitting purposes, such as drilling test bores for soil sampling; archeological investigations for archeology resources assessment or similar survey; and wetland surveys.

(25) Environmental restoration and pollution abatement actions to minimize or mitigate the impacts of any existing transportation facility (including retrofitting and construction of stormwater treatment systems to meet Federal and State requirements under sections 401 and 402 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1341; 1342)) carried out to address water pollution or environmental degradation.

(26) Modernization of a highway by resurfacing, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, adding shoulders, or adding auxiliary lanes (including parking, weaving, turning, and climbing lanes), if the action meets the constraints in paragraph (e) of this section.

(27) Highway safety or traffic operations improvement projects, including the installation of ramp metering control devices and lighting, if the project meets the constraints in paragraph (e) of this section.

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

(28) Bridge rehabilitation, reconstruction, or replacement or the construction of grade separation to replace existing at-grade railroad crossings, if the actions meet the constraints in paragraph (e) of this section.

(29) Purchase, construction, replacement, or rehabilitation of ferry vessels (including improvements to ferry vessel safety, navigation, and security systems) that would not require a change in the function of the ferry terminals and can be accommodated by existing facilities or by new facilities which themselves are within a CE.

(30) Rehabilitation or reconstruction of existing ferry facilities that occupy substantially the same geographic footprint, do not result in a change in their functional use and do not result in a substantial increase in the existing facility's capacity. Example actions include work on pedestrian and vehicle transfer structures and associated utilities, buildings, and terminals.

(e) Actions described in (c)(26), (c)(27), and (c)(28) of this section may not be processed as CEs under paragraph (c) if they involve:

(1) Acquisition of more than a minor amount of right-of-way or that would result in any residential or non-residential displacements;

(2) An action that needs a bridge permit from the U.S. Coast Guard, or an action that does not meet the terms and conditions of a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers nationwide or general permit under section 404 of the Clean Water Act and/or section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899;

(3) A finding of “adverse effect” to historic properties under the National Historic Preservation Act, the use of a resource protected under 23 U.S.C. 138 or 49 U.S.C. 303 (section 4(f)) except for actions resulting in de minimis impacts, or a finding of “may affect, likely to adversely affect” threatened or endangered species or critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act;

(4) Construction of temporary access, or the closure of the existing road, bridge, or ramps, that would result in major traffic disruptions;

(5) Changes in access control;

(6) A floodplain encroachment other than functionally dependent uses (e.g., bridges, wetlands) or actions that facilitate open space use (e.g., recreational trails, bicycle and pedestrian paths); or construction activities in, across or adjacent to a river component designated or proposed for inclusion in the National System of Wild and Scenic Rivers.

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

VI. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES EVALUATED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION

ECOLOGICAL

1. Would the project have a substantial impact on any unique or important natural resource?

Yes No

Additional comments:

Due to the project scope, reconstruction of an existing roadway segment, no substantial impact on any unique or important natural resource is expected.

2. Does the project involve habitat where federally listed endangered or threatened species may occur?

Yes No

Additional comments:

To comply with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, the USFWS IPaC website was used to obtain an Official Species List (See Appendix D) identifying the federally protected species which could occur within the environmental study area and to make an anticipated Effects Determination for each species. The USFWS IPaC Official Species List identified the following species as potentially occurring within the project area: Puerto Rican boa (Epicrates inornatus).

According to the nature of the project, habitat characteristics, and the implementation of PRHTA BMPs, it is the agency belief, that the project is not likely to adversely affect federally-listed species or their critical habitats. Nevertheless, if the project is modified or if information on impacts to listed species becomes available, PRHTA will contact the USFWS office concerning the need for the initiation of consultation under Section 7 of the Act. A number of conservation measures to avoid and minimize harm to the aforementioned listed species that could be encountered has been included in Appendix D. _____________________________________________________________________

3. Does the project qualify as a minor action that may be conducted within a blanket clearance (Self-Certification Endangered Species Act Certification) without adversely affecting the recovery and survival of listed endangered or threatened species?

Yes No

Additional comments:

A consultation letter for their concurrence was submitted to USFWS on November 8, 2019. Copy of the consultation letter is included in Appendix D.

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

4. Does the project affect USACE jurisdictional areas?

The project would not affect jurisdictional water of the US

5. If the project involves wetlands, is the amount of permanent and/or temporary wetland taking less than one-tenth (1/10) of an acre and have all practicable measures to avoid and minimize wetland takings been evaluated?

Yes No

The proposed project would not affect USACE jurisdictional areas including wetlands.

6. Does the project affect areas covered under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act?

No USACE jurisdictional areas would be affected by the proposed project.

7. Does the project involve any known underground storage tanks (UST’s) or hazardous materials sites?

Yes No

Additional comments:

No UST’s or hazardous materials were observed within the project limits.

8. Would a U.S. Coast Guard permit be required?

The project is located in the center of the island away from the coast, so it does not require a permit from the US coast guard ______

9. Does the project is located within a floodplain zone?

The FEMA flood map panels for the Project Areas 72000C1165H shows that the project is not located in a floodplain zone. See Appendix C, Figure 4, FEMA Flood Map.__________________

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

10. Does the project affect water bodies?

No water bodies would be affected by the proposed project area.

11. Does the project require the preparation of a Hydrologic-Hydraulic Study?

The proposed project does not require the preparation of a H-H study.

12. Does the project affect Wild and Scenic Rivers?

No Wild and /or scenic Rivers were identified in the vicinity of the proposed project area

13. Does the project may adversely affect Essential Fish Habitat?

The proposed project would not affect Essential Fish Habitat. ________________

14. Does the project affect coastal municipalities?

The proposed project is located in the center of the Island far from the Coastal or maritime zones. ________________________________

15. Would the project result in the modification of any existing regulatory floodway?

The proposed project would not affect the existing floodplain levels. ______________

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

16. Would the project require any stream relocations or channel changes?

The proposed project would not require any stream relocation or channel changes. ___

17. Does the project affect trees?

Several trees will be affected by the proposed works. According to the “Reglamento Conjunto para la Evaluación y Expedición de Permisos Relacionados al Desarrollo, Uso de Terrenos y Operación de Negocios” issued on June 7, 2019”, a mitigation plan will be necessary to mitigate the impacts. Nevertheless, the Administrative Order Number 2019- 01 was issued by the Permit Management Office on January 8, 2019 to extend the streamline permit process for the projects related to the emergency. The Order authorize the cut of trees without the request of a permit. The Administrative Order is effective until the declaration of state of emergency by the Governor of PR is valid.

SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES

18. Would the project induce substantial impacts to planned growth or land use for the area?

The proposed project would not induce substantial impacts to planned growth or land use for the area. __ ____________________________________________________

19. Would the project require the relocation of any family or business?

The proposed project would not require the relocation of family or business. ______

20. Would the project have a disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effect on any minority or low-income population?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project would not have a disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effect on any minority or low-income population. ______

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

21. If the project involves the acquisition of right of way, is the amount of right of way acquisition considered minor?

Yes No

Additional comments:

Additional ROW (approximately 3,088.8 square meters or 0.78 Cds) would be acquired to construct the proposed earth retention system and drainage improvements. Also, a temporary easement (approximately 37.16 square meters or 0.0095 Cds) would be necessary for construction purposes. PRHTA would provide compensation for landowners under laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the FHWA Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act (Uniform Act).

22. Does the project have any impact on the community cohesion of the adjacent project’s neighborhoods?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project would not have any impact on the community cohesion of the adjacent project’s neighborhoods.

23. Does the project affect community services?

The proposed project would not affect the community’s services.

24. Does the project consider non-discrimination considerations?

The proposed project considers the non-discrimination considerations. This is a reconstruction project due to the Hurricane Maria impacts. Corrective measures will be applied without discrimination to the surrounding neighbors________

25. Does the project have any impact on the existing noise levels?

No adverse permanent impact on the existing noise levels is expected due to the proposed project. Construction noise would create a temporary minor impact; however, construction activities would be carried out during day time and no area would be exposed to construction noise for long term duration, therefore, extended disruption of normal activities is not anticipated. _______________________________________

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

26. Does the project comply with the attaining air quality standards (NAAQS)?

The proposed project complies with the national air quality standards (NAAQS). _

27. Does the project have any impact on the existing air quality levels?

The project is located in an Attainment Area. Mobile sources air toxics emissions are not expected to increase and no exceedances of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are anticipated, though no adverse air quality effects are expected from the project. Fugitive dust from earth movement activities will be covered by an Emission Control Permit to be obtained by the contractor before construction activities commencement. ________________________________

28. Does the project affect farmlands areas?

The proposed project would not affect farmlands areas. _

29. Does the project have any significant aesthetic effects?

No adverse impacts to the existing visual character and quality are anticipated. _

30. Does the project affect recreational areas?

The proposed project would not affect recreational areas.

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

31. Would the project involve any changes in access control?

The proposed project would not involve any changes in access control. _______________

32. Would the project have an adverse effect on permanent local traffic patterns or community cohesiveness?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project would not have an adverse effect on permanent local traffic patterns or community cohesiveness. The project would improve roadway geometry and would improve safety traffic along the PR-155.

33. Would traffic be maintained during construction using existing roads, staged construction, or on-site detours?

Yes No

Additional comments:

Traffic would be remained open during construction, but temporary half section closure may be necessary and traffic delay may occur. Proper advance notice of the closure would be provided and coordination with affected stakeholders will be stablished. The Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) for the Proposed Project includes the installation of the temporary traffic control devices, temporary traffic signs, concrete barriers; and others.

34. If the project is a bridge replacement project, would the bridge be replaced at this existing location (along with the existing facility) and would all construction proposed in association with the bridge replacement project be contained on the existing facility?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project consists in the reconstruction of the roadway segment. No bridge replacement is required. __________________________

35. The project requires to affect a bridge or a culvert?

No bridges or culverts would be affected by the Proposed Project.

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

36. Is the bridge or culvert considered as historical structure?

The site was evaluated by a qualified archaeologist through a Phase IA- IB Archaeological Study. The study had a determination of no effect due to the undertaking and no further studies were recommended. A consultation letter will be submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for their concurrence. Copy of the study is enclosed (Appendix E). If unexpected cultural resources are encountered at any time within the project area, work should cease in the immediate vicinity of such discoveries. SHPO would be notified. Project activities should not resume without authorization from SHPO.

37. Is there substantial controversy on social, economic, or environmental grounds concerning the project?

Yes No

No substantial controversy is expected related to the proposed project. _____

38. Would the project have an effect on social, economic, or environmental grounds concerning the project?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project would not have an adverse effect on social, economic or environmental grounds.

39. Would the project affect any archeological remains which are important to history or pre-history?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The Phase IA -IB did not identified archeological remains in the project area. A consultation letter will be submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for their concurrence. Copy of the study is enclosed (Appendix E). If unexpected cultural resources are encountered at any time within the project area, work should cease in the immediate vicinity of such discoveries. SHPO would be notified and project activities should not resume without authorization from SHPO.

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

40. Would the project affect any historic property?

The study IA-IB had a determination of no effect due to the undertaking and no further studies were recommended. A consultation letter will be submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for their concurrence. Copy of the study is enclosed (Appendix E). If unexpected cultural resources are encountered at any time within the project area, work should cease in the immediate vicinity of such discoveries. SHPO would be notified. Project activities should not resume without authorization from SHPO.

41. Would the project require the use of Section 6 (f) resources (Land and Water Conservation Fund Act)?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The project would not cause impacts to recreational properties acquired with LWCFA Funds.

42. Would the project require the use of Section 4 (f) resources (public, parks, recreation lands, wildlife, historic sites, or historic bridges, as defined in Section 4 (f) of the U.S.

Department of Transportation Act of 1966?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project would not affect any publicly owned parks, recreational area, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, or public and private historical sites. ______

43. Would the project require the relocation of utilities or construction of new facilities?

No impact to utilities was identified in the project area. However, if any utility is discover during earth movement works, coordination with affected utility representatives would be implemented if needed. ______

44. Would the project affect the airport clearance?

The project doesn’t affect the airport clearance.

PR-155 kms. 30.10 & km 30.20, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

45. Would the project consider the accommodations of pedestrian and bicycle facilities as part of its scope?

Yes No

Additional comments:

No accommodation of pedestrian and bicycle facilities are part of the project’s scope.

46. Would the project require public involvement activities?

The public would be informed of the proposed project using variable messages boards and other methods.

47. Does the project have any potential of controversy?

No potential of controversy is expected for the proposed project.

VII. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS REQUIRED FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT

1. The proposed works would be constructed mostly within the existing right of way.

Nevertheless, to accommodate the proposed earth retaining system and drainage improvements an approximately 3,088.18 square meters (0.785 acres) of land acquisition would be required. Also, a temporary construction easement (approximately 37.16 square meters) would be necessary for construction purposes. PRHTA would provide compensation for landowners under laws of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the FHWA Uniform

Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act (Uniform Act).

2. This project would not cause effect on historic properties. If unexpected cultural resources are encountered at any time within the project area, work should cease in the immediate vicinity of such discoveries and SHPO would be notified. After, such notification, project activities should not resume without and/or written from SHPO.

3. The project is not likely to adversely affect federally-listed species or their critical habitats.

The implementation of PRHTA BMPs for Epicrates inornatus (Puerto Rican Boa) will be performed.

4. During the construction, the PR-155 segments would be remained open, but temporary half section closure may be necessary and traffic delays may occur. A MOT plan would be prepared specifically for this project.

Appendix A – Emergency Declared Documents

44647 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 184 / Monday, September 25, 2017 / Notices

Brown Fund; 97.032, Crisis Counseling;

97.033, Disaster Legal Services; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA);

97.046, Fire Management Assistance Grant;

97.048, Disaster Housing Assistance to Individuals and Households In Presidentially Declared Disaster Areas; 97.049, Presidentially Declared Disaster Assistance— Disaster Housing Operations for Individuals and Households; 97.050 Presidentially Declared Disaster Assistance to Individuals and Households—Other Needs; 97.036, Disaster Grants—Public Assistance (Presidentially Declared Disasters); 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant.

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

[FR Doc. 2017–20439 Filed 9–22–17; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 9111–23–P

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND

SECURITY

Federal Emergency Management Agency

[Internal Agency Docket No. FEMA–3384– EM; Docket ID FEMA–2017–0001]

Puerto Rico; Emergency and Related Determinations

AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS.

ACTION: Notice.

SUMMARY: This is a notice of the Presidential declaration of an emergency for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (FEMA–3384–EM), dated September 5, 2017, and related determinations.

DATES: The declaration was issued September 5, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Dean Webster, Office of Response and Recovery, Federal Emergency Management Agency, 500 C Street SW., Washington, DC 20472, (202) 646–2833.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given that, in a letter dated September 5, 2017, the President issued an emergency declaration under the authority of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121–5207 (the Stafford Act), as follows:

I have determined that the emergency conditions in certain areas of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico resulting from Hurricane Irma beginning on September 5, 2017, and continuing, are of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant an emergency declaration under the Robert T.

Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq. (‘‘the Stafford Act’’). Therefore, I declare that such an emergency exists in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

You are authorized to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Stafford Act, to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in the designated areas. Specifically, you are authorized to provide assistance for debris removal and emergency protective measures (Categories A and B), including direct Federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program.

Consistent with the requirement that Federal assistance is supplemental, any Federal funds provided under the Stafford Act for Public Assistance will be limited to 75 percent of the total eligible costs. In order to provide Federal assistance, you are hereby authorized to allocate from funds available for these purposes such amounts as you find necessary for Federal emergency assistance and administrative expenses.

Further, you are authorized to make changes to this declaration for the approved assistance to the extent allowable under the Stafford Act.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby gives notice that pursuant to the authority vested in the Administrator, Department of Homeland Security, under Executive Order 12148, as amended, Alejandro DeLaCampa, of FEMA is appointed to act as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this declared emergency.

The following areas of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico have been designated as adversely affected by this declared emergency:

All 78 municipalities in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for debris removal and emergency protective measures (Categories A and B), including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program.

The following Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers (CFDA) are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund; 97.032, Crisis Counseling;

97.033, Disaster Legal Services; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA);

97.046, Fire Management Assistance Grant;

97.048, Disaster Housing Assistance to Individuals and Households In Presidentially Declared Disaster Areas; 97.049, Presidentially Declared Disaster Assistance— Disaster Housing Operations for Individuals and Households; 97.050, Presidentially Declared Disaster Assistance to Individuals and Households—Other Needs; 97.036, Disaster Grants—Public Assistance (Presidentially Declared Disasters); 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant.

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

[FR Doc. 2017–20451 Filed 9–22–17; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 9111–23–P

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND

SECURITY

Federal Emergency Management Agency

[Internal Agency Docket No. FEMA–4325– DR; Docket ID FEMA–2017–0001]

Nebraska; Amendment No. 2 to Notice of a Major Disaster Declaration

AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS.

ACTION: Notice.

SUMMARY: This notice amends the notice of a major disaster declaration for the State of Nebraska (FEMA–4325–DR), dated August 1, 2017, and related determinations.

DATES: The amendment was issued on September 8, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Dean Webster, Office of Response and Recovery, Federal Emergency Management Agency, 500 C Street SW., Washington, DC 20472, (202) 646–2833.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby gives notice that pursuant to the authority vested in the Administrator, under Executive Order 12148, as amended, Michael R. Scott, of FEMA is appointed to act as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster.

This action terminates the appointment of Dolph A. Diemont as Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster.

The following Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers (CFDA) are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund; 97.032, Crisis Counseling;

97.033, Disaster Legal Services; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA);

97.046, Fire Management Assistance Grant;

97.048, Disaster Housing Assistance to Individuals and Households In Presidentially Declared Disaster Areas; 97.049, Presidentially Declared Disaster Assistance— Disaster Housing Operations for Individuals and Households; 97.050, Presidentially Declared Disaster Assistance to Individuals and Households—Other Needs; 97.036, Disaster Grants—Public Assistance (Presidentially Declared Disasters); 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant.

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

[FR Doc. 2017–20454 Filed 9–22–17; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 9111–23–P

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46820 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 193 / Friday, October 6, 2017 / Notices affected by the event declared a major disaster by the President in his declaration of September 10, 2017.

Brevard, Orange, Pasco, and St. Lucie Counties for Individual Assistance (already designated for debris removal and emergency protective measures [Categories A and B], including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program).

The following Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers (CFDA) are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund; 97.032, Crisis Counseling;

97.033, Disaster Legal Services; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA);

97.046, Fire Management Assistance Grant;

97.048, Disaster Housing Assistance to Individuals and Households In Presidentially Declared Disaster Areas; 97.049, Presidentially Declared Disaster Assistance— Disaster Housing Operations for Individuals and Households; 97.050 Presidentially Declared Disaster Assistance to Individuals and Households—Other Needs; 97.036, Disaster Grants—Public Assistance (Presidentially Declared Disasters); 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant.

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

[FR Doc. 2017–21645 Filed 10–5–17; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 9111–15–P

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND

SECURITY

Federal Emergency Management Agency

[Internal Agency Docket No. FEMA–4329– DR; Docket ID FEMA–2017–0001]

New Hampshire; Amendment No. 2 to Notice of a Major Disaster Declaration

AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS.

ACTION: Notice.

SUMMARY: This notice amends the notice of a major disaster declaration for the State of New Hampshire (FEMA–4329– DR), dated August 9 2017, and related determinations.

DATES: The amendment was issued on September 21, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Dean Webster, Office of Response and Recovery, Federal Emergency Management Agency, 500 C Street SW., Washington, DC 20472, (202) 646–2833.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby gives notice that pursuant to the authority vested in the Administrator, under Executive Order 12148, as amended, James N. Russo, of FEMA is appointed to act as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster.

This action terminates the appointment of Albert Lewis as Federal Coordinating Officer for this disaster.

The following Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers (CFDA) are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund; 97.032, Crisis Counseling;

97.033, Disaster Legal Services; 97.034, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA);

97.046, Fire Management Assistance Grant;

97.048, Disaster Housing Assistance to Individuals and Households In Presidentially Declared Disaster Areas; 97.049, Presidentially Declared Disaster Assistance— Disaster Housing Operations for Individuals and Households; 97.050, Presidentially Declared Disaster Assistance to Individuals and Households—Other Needs; 97.036, Disaster Grants—Public Assistance (Presidentially Declared Disasters); 97.039, Hazard Mitigation Grant.

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

[FR Doc. 2017–21642 Filed 10–5–17; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 9111–23–P

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND

SECURITY

Federal Emergency Management Agency

[Internal Agency Docket No. FEMA–4339– DR; Docket ID FEMA–2017–0001]

Puerto Rico; Major Disaster and Related Determinations

AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS.

ACTION: Notice.

SUMMARY: This is a notice of the Presidential declaration of a major disaster for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (FEMA–4339–DR), dated September 20, 2017, and related determinations.

DATES: The declaration was issued September 20, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Dean Webster, Office of Response and Recovery, Federal Emergency Management Agency, 500 C Street SW., Washington, DC 20472, (202) 646–2833.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Notice is hereby given that, in a letter dated September 20, 2017, the President issued a major disaster declaration under the authority of the Robert T.

Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.

(the ‘‘Stafford Act’’), as follows:

I have determined that the damage in certain areas of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico resulting from Hurricane Maria beginning on September 17, 2017, and continuing, is of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant a major disaster declaration under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq. (the ‘‘Stafford Act’’). Therefore, I declare that such a major disaster exists in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

In order to provide Federal assistance, you are hereby authorized to allocate from funds available for these purposes such amounts as you find necessary for Federal disaster assistance and administrative expenses.

You are authorized to provide Individual Assistance and assistance for debris removal and emergency protective measures (Categories A and B) under the Public Assistance program in the designated areas, Hazard Mitigation throughout the Commonwealth, and any other forms of assistance under the Stafford Act that you deem appropriate subject to completion of Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs).

Direct Federal assistance is authorized.

Consistent with the requirement that Federal assistance be supplemental, any Federal funds provided under the Stafford Act for Hazard Mitigation and Other Needs Assistance will be limited to 75 percent of the total eligible costs. Federal funds provided under the Stafford Act for Public Assistance also will be limited to 75 percent of the total eligible costs, with the exception of projects that meet the eligibility criteria for a higher Federal cost-sharing percentage under the Public Assistance Alternative Procedures Pilot Program for Debris Removal implemented pursuant to section 428 of the Stafford Act.

Further, you are authorized to make changes to this declaration for the approved assistance to the extent allowable under the Stafford Act.

The time period prescribed for the implementation of section 310(a), Priority to Certain Applications for Public Facility and Public Housing Assistance, 42 U.S.C. 5153, shall be for a period not to exceed six months after the date of this declaration.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby gives notice that pursuant to the authority vested in the Administrator, under Executive Order 12148, as amended, Alejandro DeLaCampa, of FEMA is appointed to act as the Federal Coordinating Officer for this major disaster.

The following areas of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico have been designated as adversely affected by this major disaster:

The municipalities of Aguas Buenas, Aibonito, Arecibo, Arroyo, Barceloneta, Barranquitas, Bayamón, Caguas, Canóvanas, Carolina, Cataño, Cayey, Ceiba, Ciales, Cidra, Coamo, Comerio, Corozal, Culebra, Dorado, Fajardo, Florida, Guayama, Guaynabo, Gurabo, Humacao, Jayuya, Juana Dı́az, Juncos, Las Piedras, Loı́za, Luquillo, Manati, Maunabo, Morovis, Naguabo, Naranjito, Orocovis, Patillas, Ponce, Rio Grande, Salinas, San Juan, San Lorenzo, Santa Isabel, VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:40 Oct 05, 2017 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\06OCN1.SGM 06OCN1as ab al ia us ka s on

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46821 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 193 / Friday, October 6, 2017 / Notices

1 https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4332, designating Aransas, Bee, Brazoria, Calhoun, Chambers, Colorado, Fayette, Fort Bend, Galveston, Goliad, Hardin, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Kleberg, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Newton, Nueces, Orange, Refugio, Sabine, San Jacinto, San Patricio, Victoria, Waller, Wharton Counties in Texas.

2 https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4335, designating St. John (Island) (County-equivalent) St.

Thomas (Island) (County-equivalent) in U.S. Virgin Islands for Hurricane Irma and St. Croix for Hurricane Maria.

3 https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4336, designating Canovanas (Municipio), Culebra (Municipio), Loiza (Municipio), Vieques (Municipio) in Puerto Rico for Hurricane Irma and Aguas Buenas, Aibonito, Arecibo, Arroyo, Barceloneta, Barranquitas, Bayamón, Caguas, Canóvanas, Carolina, Cataño, Cayey, Ceiba, Ciales, Cidra, Coamo, Comerio, Corozal, Culebra, Dorado, Fajardo, Florida, Guayama, Guaynabo, Gurabo, Humacao, Jayuya, Juana Dı́az, Juncos, Las Piedras, Loı́za, Luquillo, Manati, Maunabo, Morovis, Naguabo, Naranjito, Orocovis, Patillas, Ponce, Rio Grande, Salinas, San Juan, San Lorenzo, Santa Isabel, Toa Baja, Toa Alta, Trujillo Alto, Utuado, Vega Alta, Vega Baja, Vieques, Villalba, and Yabucoa for Hurricane Maria.

4 https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4337, designating Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Gilchrist, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Levy, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, Suwannee, Union, Volusia in Florida.

5 https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4338, designating Camden, Chatham, Coffee, Glynn, Liberty and Mcintosh in Georgia.

6 https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4339, designating Puerto Rico.

Toa Baja, Toa Alta, Trujillo Alto, Utuado, Vega Alta, Vega Baja, Vieques, Villalba, and Yabucoa for Individual Assistance.

All municipalities in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for debris removal and emergency protective measures (Categories A and B), including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program.

All areas within the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico are eligible for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

The following Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Numbers (CFDA) are to be used for reporting and drawing funds: 97.030, Community Disaster Loans; 97.031, Cora Brown Fund; 97.032,…