Categorical Exclusion Form (NEPA)_ CE_Sch B_Hwy-270_271_273_275.pdf

CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION

Emergency Relief Program Landslide Correction

STATE ROAD PR-156

KM. 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 4.40, 6.3 @ 6.40

OROCOVIS, PUERTO RICO

GROUP B

AC-8165544/AC-858579

January 2021

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority

DDIR Id: PR-156-N-01, PR-156-N-02, PR-156-N-05, PR-156-N-08

(AAI 1/22/2021)

Emergency Relief Program Landslide Correction

PR-156, kms. 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 4.4, 6.3 @ 6.4, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

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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-156, kms. 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 4.4, 6.3 @ 6.4, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

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PUERTO RICO HIGHWAY AND TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY

CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION ACTION CLASSIFICATION FORM

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

State Project No. AC-816544 Federal Project No.

ER-HWY-270

ER-HWY-271

ER-HWY-273

ER-HWY-275

Project Name Emergency Relief Program Landslide Corrections PR-156 Route No. PR-156

From Milepost 3.60 To Milepost 6.40

Municipality Orocovis Length 2.8 kms ( various segments of approx. 100 mts each)

ROW Cost To be determined Construction Cost $945,040.80

EXISTING FACILITY PROPOSED FACILITY

ROW Width 6.50m ROW Width 6.50m

No. Lanes & Width 2 lanes, 3.30mts.

each

No. Lanes & Width 2 lanes, 3.35 -3.60 mts. each

Shoulder Width 0 mts. Median 0 mts. Shoulder

Width 1.2 mts. Median 0 mts.

Overall Roadway Width 6.50 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 and 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. One of the affected roads was State Road PR- 156 in the Municipality of Orocovis.

The Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority (PRHTA) proposes the reconstruction and repairs of the following roadway segments:

Project ID Road Segment ER-HWY-270 PR-156 Km 3.60 ER-HWY-275 PR-156 Km 3.70 & 3.80 ER-HWY-271 PR-156 Km 4.40 ER-HWY 73 PR-156 Km 6.30 @ 6.40

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The Project will be financed with funds from the Emergency Relief Program associated to Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Enclosed is the DDIR 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 experiences 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 various 100-meter-long segments of State Road PR-156, from km. 3.6 to km 6.4 , in the Botijas Wards of the Municipality of Orocovis. The Lambert coordinates for the areas are:

Area 1 PR-156, Km. 3.6, (X= 206693.944, Y= 243084.503) Area 2 PR-156, Km. 3.7 @ km 3.8 (X= 206765.729), Y= 243055.777) Area 3 PR- 156, km. 4.40 (X= 207071.942), Y= 242573.440) Area 4 PR-156, km. 6.30 @ 6.40 (X= 208148.964), (Y= 242040.923)

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

Existing Conditions

Heavy rains due to the Hurricane Maria triggered several landslides along PR-156. The existing conditions for the affected areas are described below:

PR-156 Km. 3.6 (ER-HWY-270)

This segment is in a rural- residential area. The landslide occurred on the northbound lane of the road. On this side, there is a steep descending slope ( 20 -40 %). The landslide is approximately 8 meter-deep and 15 meter-long.

PR-156 km. 3.7- 3.8 (ER-HWY-275)

This segment is in a rural-residential area. As seen in the aerial photograph, there are residences on both sides of the road but not adjacent to the landslide; an approximately 20-meter-long landslide was observed on the eastbound side of the road.

PR-156 Km. 4.40 (ER-HWY-271)

This segment is also located in a rural- residential area. The site shows an approximately 20-meter- long landslide on the northbound side of the roadway, that caused the downslope displacement of an existing gravity retaining wall .

PR-156 Km. 6.3 @ 6.4 (ER-HWY-273)

This segment is narrower than the rest of the road and the aerial photographs shows that although is densely vegetated, with 20 to 40% slopes terrain, there are some residences in the surrounding area.

Proposed Project

The project consists in the reconstruction of various segments along state road PR-156 from km 3.6 to km 6.4, which will include the widening of each roadway segment, the construction of gabion walls to stabilize the areas where landslides have occurred, improvement of the drainage systems, application of protective measures for erosion control, and replacement of safety features like guardrails and pavement markings and other miscellaneous works. Design drawings showing the typical sections of the PR-156, ROW limits, acquisitions, and proposed repairs are included in Appendix C.

The proposed works in each segment are:

PR-156 Km. 3.6 (ER-HWY-270)

Reconstruction of the roadway segment by constructing a new pavement structure and widening the section to two (2) 3.60 meter-wide lanes with 1.2 meter-wide shoulders on both sides and the construction of an 45.9 meter-long variable height earth retention system from Sta 1+40.34 to Sta 1+92.98 to stabilize the area where the landslides occurred. The backfill material will be covered with a concrete slab.

Construction of a Concrete Barrier Type C, pavement markings, installation of guardrails and traffic signs.

PR-156 km. 3.7- 3.8 (ER-HWY-275)

Reconstruction of the roadway segment by constructing a new pavement structure and widening the section to two (2) 3.60 meter-wide lanes with 1.2 meter-wide shoulders on both sides, stabilizing of the upslope section where the landslide occurred, construction of a concrete barrier type C, pavement markings, installation of guardrails and traffic signs and other miscellaneous works.

PR-156 Km. 4.40 (ER-HWY-271)

Reconstruction of the roadway segment by constructing a new pavement structure and widening the section to two (2) 3.60 meter-wide lanes with 1.2 meter-wide and 2.4 meter-wide shoulders at each side;

It will also include the construction of a 22.5-meter-long variable height gabion wall on the downslope section where the landslide occurred, from Sta 1+26.89 (PR-156) to Sta 1+49.41 (PR-156), the construction

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of a concrete chute at one end of the gabion wall with a stone revetment at the outfall point for erosion control. The gabion backfill material will be covered with a concrete slab. The construction of a Concrete Barrier Type C, concrete curb & gutter, concrete swale, pavement markings, installation of guardrails and traffic signs and other miscellaneous works are proposed.

PR-156 Km. 6.3 @ 6.4 (ER-HWY-273) Reconstruction of the roadway segment by constructing a new pavement structure and widening the section to two (2) 3.60 meter-wide lanes with a 2.4 meter-wide shoulder on northbound lane, reshaping of the unstable upslope section where the landslide occurred, pavement markings, installation of guardrails and traffic signs and other miscellaneous works.

III. PURPOSE AND NEED

Purpose

The purpose of the proposed project is to stabilize the deteriorated segments along PR-156 roadway, to ensure the safety of the users of this vital transportation corridor. Stabilizing the roadway downslopes, reshaping the upslopes and revegetating the upslopes, and improving the drainage system will protect the roadway from progressive deterioration and will protect drivers and ensure life and properties in the surrounding area.

Need

The proposed project is needed for the following reasons:

The roadway segments are in such poor conditions due to the landslides that had become a safety hazard for the drivers and adjacent properties The potential exists for a catastrophic failure of the roadway sections.

State road PR-156 is an important corridor for local traffic and a collector roadway for the neighboring municipalities. PR-156 connects the Municipality of Orocovis with the Municipalities of Barranquitas, Aibonito and Cayey

PRHTA proposes to perform the construction of a Gravity Walls on sites located at kilometers 3.6, 3.7, 3.8 and 4.4 based on the following:

Gabions Walls can be built on the edge of the road behind the concrete barriers.

The closer the retaining wall is to the roadway edge; the less impact to adjacent properties.

Estimated Construction Cost is lower in comparison with other studied alternatives.

The Gabion flexible structure makes for their resistance of being dragged away during heavy downpours.

Gabions provides for runoff control by reducing water velocity as the rocks dissipate its energy and prevent erosion on the outfall points that may be caused by water or excessive seepage on steep slopes.

Gabion walls resist breakage and separation, due to the flexibility of the wire mesh construction.

The gravel and rocks used in gabion construction can endure years of wear through water erosion.

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Gabions provides for the flattening of steep slopes and smoothing of terrain contours.

No need for Road Closure during construction. Works can be done in half-section of the road.

Handling and transportation the materials to sites are quite easy to unload and place, which helps to reduce the time taken to build the Gabions.

Filling the baskets with rock is something that is done by hand. If the contractor has the required manpower, the Gabion Retaining Wall can be done faster.

The project includes pavement rehabilitation, installation of traffic sign, pavement markings and guardrails, drainage improvements, among others.;

IV. PLANNING CONSISTENCY PHASE I

Estimated construction time: Twelve (12) months Estimated Construction Cost: $920,185.00 Estimated date for ROW: The first semester of 2021 Estimated date for PS&E: The first semester of 2021 Estimated date for Construction phase begins: The first semester of 2021 Project STIP Consistency: This Project will be financed with funds from the FHWA

Emergency Relief Program (ER Program) associated to Hurricanes Irma and Maria of September 2017. Enclosed are the approved DDIR documents for this works.

(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 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

PR-156, kms. 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 4.4, 6.3 @ 6.4, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

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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):

(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

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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.

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

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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.

(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.

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(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.

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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, 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), Puertorrican Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus brunnescens) and Puerto Rican Parrot (Amazona vittata).

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, therefore, the USFWS concurred that no further consultation is required (See Appendix D). 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 was submitted to USFWS on November 6, 2019. Copy of the consultation letter is included in Appendix D.

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4. Does the project affect USACE jurisdictional areas?

Yes No

Additional comments:

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

Additional comments:

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?

Yes No

Additional comments:

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?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project construction is in upland, not required Coast Guard permit.

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

The FEMA flood map panels for the Project Areas are: PR-156, km 3.6 (72000C11755H); PR- 156 Km 3.7 & km 3.8 (72000C1155H); PR-156, km 4.40 (72000C1155H) and PR-156, kms 6.3 & 6.4 (72000C1155), effective on April 19, 2005. A Zone X floodplain has been mapped for the subject areas. See Appendix B, FEMA Flood Maps._________________

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10. Does the project affect water bodies?

Yes No

Additional comments:

No water bodies would be affected by the proposed project sites. Sites discharges downslope into natural depressions that eventually discharges toward Rio Botijas. Erosion and sediment control measures shall be implemented to prevent the release of sediment outside the proposed project areas.

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

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

12. Does the project affect Wild and Scenic Rivers?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project is located far from any scenic waterbody.

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project would not affect Essential Fish Habitat. ________________

14. Does the project affect coastal municipalities?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project is far from the coastal or maritime zones. The Municipality of Orocovis is in the hinterland of Puerto Rico.

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

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

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

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

17. Does the project affect trees?

Yes No

Additional comments:

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 tree impacts. Nevertheless, an Administrative Order Number 2019-01 was issued by 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?

Yes No

Additional comments:

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?

Yes No

Additional comments:

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. ______

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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:

Acquisition of 1,481.364 square meters of land strips to accommodate the proposed slopes repairs and drainage improvements would be required. Also, 148 square meters of temporary easements may also 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?

Yes No

Additional comments:

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

24. Does the project consider non-discrimination considerations?

Yes No

Additional comments:

_The proposed project considers the non-discrimination considerations. _________

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

No adverse impact on the existing noise levels is expected. Construction noise would create a temporary impact, however, no area would be exposed to construction noise for long term duration, therefore, extended disruption of normal activities is not anticipated.

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

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

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

Because mobile sources air toxics emissions are not expected to increase and no exceedances of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) are anticipated, no adverse air quality effects are expected from the project. Any air emission from proposed work would be short-term in duration and very site-specific.

28. Does the project affect farmlands areas?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project consists of the repair of an existing facility in an rural-urban area;

therefore, would not affect farmlands areas. _ _________________________

29. Does the project have any significant aesthetic effects?

Yes No

Additional comments:

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

30. Does the project affect recreational areas?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project would not affect recreational areas.

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

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

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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 proposed project substantially conforms to the preexisting roadway function. it would keep the same geometry and would improve safety traffic along the PR-156. _____________

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

PR-156 roadway would remaining open, but temporary half section closure may be necessary. Proper advance notice of the closure would allow uninterrupted access although some traffic delays may be anticipated. The Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) for the Proposed Project includes the temporary half-section closure; the installation of the temporary traffic control device; the installation of 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 does not require a bridge replacement.

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

No bridges or culverts would be affected by the Proposed Project. The culvert identified at PR-156 km 4.40 (site ER-HWY-271) would be maintained and cleaned, as part of the proposed project scope.____________________________________________________

PR-156, kms. 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 4.4, 6.3 @ 6.4, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

AC-816544

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

As part of the damages and possible solutions evaluation for the landslide problem, identification of historic properties and evaluation of effects was conducted. The site was evaluated by a qualified archaeologist. The study had a determination of no effect due to the undertaking. It showed that no historical structure has been observed and no further studies were recommended. A consultation letter was sent to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and they concurred with our determination on January 20, 2021.

Copy of the concurrence letter 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

Additional comments:

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:

An identification of archeological remains and evaluation of effects was conducted by a qualified archaeologist. No archeological remains were identified. The letter documenting the findings to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and the concurrence letter with our determination of no effect on historic properties of January 20, 2021 are 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-156, kms. 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 4.4, 6.3 @ 6.4, Orocovis, Puerto Rico

AC-816544

40. Would the project affect any historic property?

Yes No

Additional comments:

As part of the damages and possible solutions evaluation for the landslide problem, an identification of historic properties and evaluation of effects was conducted. The site was evaluated by a qualified archaeologist. The study had a determination of no effect due to the undertaking and no further studies were recommended. The letter documenting the findings to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO and the concurrence letter with our determination of no effect on historic properties of January 20, 2021 are 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?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project would not require the relocation of utility or construction of new facilities, however consultation to PRASA would be performed if deem necessary.

44. Would the project affect the airport clearance?

Yes No

The project doesn’t affect the airport clearance.

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.

Existing PR-156 sections are two-lane roadway without shoulders; and although widening for shoulders is proposed its capacity for expansion is limited. Its geometry and operational components would be preserved. The proposed project substantially conforms to the preexisting conditions as the original roadway _________________ _

46. Would the project require public involvement activities?

Yes No

The public would be informed of the proposed project using variable messages boards and /or advertisement on national circulation newspapers.

47. Does the project have any potential of controversy?

Yes No

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 slopes repairs and drainage improvements an approximately 1,481.364 square meters (0.3765 acres) of land acquisition would be required.

Also, a temporary construction easement (148 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 Puerto Rican Boa (Epicrates inornatus), Puertorrican Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus brunnescens) and Puerto Rican Parrot (Amazona vittata).will be performed.

4. PR-156 would remain open during construction, but temporary half section closure may be necessary and temporary traffic delays are foreseen. A MOT would be prepared specifically for this project.

5. 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 tree impacts. Nevertheless, an Administrative Order Number 2019-01 was issued by 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.

6. Erosion and sedimentation control measures shall be implemented during construction activities to prevent the discharge of pollutants into nearby natural depressions and/or waterbodies. PRHTA would require the contractor to prepare and implement an Incidental Unique Permit (PUI, Spanish acronym) and a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit (if required). Also, PRHTA would request the contractor to comply with any other applicable Federal and local regulations.

7. If the project requires the relocation of utilities in areas where PREPA and PRASA pipe lines are close to excavation, a note in the project final plans would be included to indicate that the contractor shall perform an exploratory excavation.

CE Approval

Approved by:

January 22, 2021

Date PRHTA Authorized Representative

Concurred by:

Date FHWA Environmental Specialist

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