Categorical Exclusion Form (NEPA) HWY-308.pdf

April 26, 2021

Mr. Jamie Christian Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration 350 Torre Chardón, Suite 210 San Juan, Puerto Rico 00918

REVISED CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION

EMERGENCY RELIEF PROGRAM FOR LANDSLIDE

REPAIR OF PR-179, KM. 13.25

GUAYAMA, PUERTO RICO

ER-HWY-308

AC-811544/AC-838579

Dear Mr. Christian:

We are submitting, for your review and concurrence, the Revised Categorical Exclusion prepared for the above reference project.

If you have any comments, please contact me the telephone number (787) 721-8787, extensions 1008.

Cordially yours, Luis E. Rodríguez Rosa Deputy Executive Director

Enclosure

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EMERGENCY RELIEF PROGRAM

LANDSLIDE CORRECTION PROJECT

AC-811544/AC-838579

CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION

ER-HWY-308

PR-179, KM. 13.25, GUAYAMA, PR

AC-811544/AC-838579

DDIR-PR-2017-01

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority Environmental Studies Office PO Box 42007 San Juan, PR 00940-2007

April 2020

Categorical Exclusion Emergency Relief Program-Landslide Correction Project ER-HWY-308, PR-179, km-13.25, Guayama, P.R.

Table of Contents Page

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority Categorical Exclusion Action Classification Form

I. General Information 3

II. Project Description 4

III. Purpose and Need 4

IV. Planning Consistency: 5

V. Proposed Improvements 6

VI. Environmental Issues Evaluated for the Proposed Action 10

VII. Environmental Commitments required for the proposed project 18

APPENDIXES

Appendix A Emergency Declaration Documents

Appendix B Figures and Project Design Plan

Appendix C Detailed Damage Inspection Report (DDIR)

Appendix D USFWLS Coordination

Appendix E SHPO Coordination

Appendix F Categorical Exclusion Checklist

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority Categorical Exclusion Action Classification Form

I. General Information State Project No.: AC-811544/AC-838579 Federal Project: ER-HWY-308

Project Name:

Emergency Relief Projects Landslide Correction Project Road PR-179, Km. 13.25

Route No: PR-179

From Milepost: Km. 13.25 To Milepost: Km. 13.25

Municipality: Guayama Length: 128 mts.

ROW Cost Construction $442,453.00

Existing Facility

ROW Width:

No. Lanes & Width:

Bi-directional travel way with a total width of 5.8 meters, marked by solid white edge lines at both edges.

Shoulder Width: 0.0 mts.

Median: 0.0 mts.

Overall Roadway Width Width: 5.8 mts.

Proposed Facility

ROW Width:

No. Lanes & Width:

Two (2) 3.05-meter wide lanes.

Shoulder Width: 0.0 mts.

Median: 0.0 mts.

Overall Roadway Width:

7.00 mts.

II. Project Description (Included project scope and location and refer to the attached project location map)

The Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority (PRHTA) plan to perform emergency repairs to various roadways due to damages caused by the passing of Hurricanes Irma and María, in September 2017. Hencefore, President Donald J. Trump and Governor Ricardo Rosselló declared a state of emergency in Puerto Rico, pursuant to the Robert Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistant Act( Public Law 100-707) . Appendix A includes reference documents of the Emergency Declaration for Puerto Rico. State Road PR-179 was one of the roadways affected in the Municipality of Guayama.

The project consists in the reconstruction of a 128.00-meter-long section of PR-179 at km 13.25 to restore the roadway to its previous condition. PR-179 traverses through mountainous terrain on the north part of the Municipality of Guayama. The typical section of the proposed project will accommodate two (2) 3.05-meter wide lanes for bi-directional traffic. Appendix B includes the project's location map, aerial photograph, and proposed plan.

Proposed Project:

The following works are included as part of the proposed project:

1. Construction of a 64-meter-long sheet pile with cap beam retaining wall.

2. Construction of curbs and drainage structures (Concrete Curb & Gutter Type F and Concrete

Curb Type D) to channelize storm water runoff away from the embankment slopes

3. Partial abandonment of an existing 30" diameter RCP storm sewer pipe and its reconnection to a new section of a 26.16-meter-long 36” diam. RCP with a discharge point beyond the retaining structure.

4. Installation of a 16-meter-long riprap at the 36” dia. storm sewer pipe discharge point to dissipate energy and minimize erosion and a (2.74 x 1.83) gabion mattress at the 30” pipe entrance for the same purpose.

5. Construction of shallow swales in slope toes to channelize rainfalls toward the discharge system

6. Installation of a Concrete Barrier Type F on top of the cap beam of the new retaining wall and w-beam guardrails at both ends.

7. Cold milling and resurfacing of existing asphalt pavement to remain.

8. Installation of signs, pavement markings, raised pavement markers and other miscellaneous works.

The roadway will be rebuilt mostly within the existing Right-of-Way, except for an area of approximately

218.00 square meters of land to be acquired to accommodate the riprap and gabion mattress at the entrance and discharge points of the storm sewer system. A temporary construction easement of approximately 296 square meters will also be required to complete the proposed repairs. The proposed repairs are necessary to reestablish mobility and accessibility and provide safety to highway users.

III. Purpose and Need

The landslide impacted State Road PR-179, which is part of the Island’s secondary roadway network.

According to PRHTA, PR-179 spans 20.4 kilometers and starts at PR-15, Km. 1.0, in the Municipality of Guayama, heading Northeasterly, and ending at its intersection with PR-184, in Cayey .

PRHTA records show that PR-179, Km. 15.10, had an Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) of 994 vehicles in 2007. Due to the passing of Hurricane María in September 2017, the road suffered damages due to a landslide that reduced the roadway's width by approximately 0.8 meters, affecting traffic and safety in the area.

The Detailed Damage Inspection Report (DDIR) included in Appendix C identifies the site as part of the FHWA Emergency Relief Program (ER Program- PR-2017-01). This project will stabilize the roadway slopes and allow highway users of the complete roadway section safely.

IV. Planning Consistency:

Estimated Construction Time: 6 months

Estimated Construction Cost: $442,453.00

Estimated Date for ROW: First semester of 2020

Estimated Date for PS&E: First semester of 2020

Estimated Date Construction Phase Begins: Second semester of 2020

Project STIP Consistency:

This project will be financed with funds from the Emergency Relief Program associated to hurricanes Irma and María. The corresponding DDIR is included in Appendix C.

V. Proposed Improvements

771.115 Classes of Actions

(b) Class II (CESs). 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 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.

(b) 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 USC 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 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 rail bed 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 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 (as adjusted annually by the Secretary to reflect any increases in the Consumer Price Index prepared by the Department of Labor, see www.fhwa.dot.gov or www.fta.dot.gov) of Federal funds; or

(ii) With a total estimated cost of not more than $30,000,000 (as adjusted annually by the Secretary to reflect any increases in the Consumer Price Index prepared by the Department of Labor, see www.fhwa.dot.gov or www.fta.dot.gov) 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.

(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) An acquisition of more than a minor amount of right-of-way or that would result in any residential or nonresidential 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 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.

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:

The project’s scope is not expected to have substantial impact on any uniquely sensitive natural resources.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service IPaC webpage, the project’s location is not a critical habitat for the Puerto Rican Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus brunnescenes), the Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus venator), nor the Puerto Rican Boa (Epicrates inornatus). However, if any of these species is sighted within the project area conservation protocols would be implemented during construction.

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:

To comply with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, the USFWS IPaC website was used to obtain an Official Species List identifying te 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 list identify the following specie as potentially occurring within the project area: Puerto Rican Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus brunnescenes), Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus venator) and the 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 habitat. However, if any of these species is sighted within the project area conservation protocols would be implemented during construction. A consultation letter to USFWS was submitted on December 4, 2019 and their concurred on January 13, 2020. See copy on Appendix E.

4. The project affects USACE jurisdictional areas?

NO

Additional Comments:

The project would not affect any USACE jurisdictional area.

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:

Not wetlands are in the project area.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The project would not affect any USACE jurisdictional area.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The project does not affect any UST or hazardous materials sites.

8. Would a US Coast Guard Permit be required?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

A U.S. Coast Guard permit would not be required because the project is in the Island hinterland and no navigable water would be affected by it.

9. Is the project located within a floodplain zone?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The project is not located within a floodplain zone. See Appendix A.

10. Would the project affect water bodies?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

No water bodies would be affected by the project. A tributary to Carite Lake is at an approximate horizontal distance of 110 meters to the east of the site.

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

YES NO

No Hydrologic-Hydraulic Study is required for the proposed project.

12. Would the project affect Wild and Scenic Rivers?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project would not affect any designated Wild and Scenic Rivers of Puerto Rico.

13. Would the project adversely affect Essential Fish Habitat?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project would not affect any Essential Fish Habitat.

14. Does the project affect coastal municipalities?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The project is located in the mountainous area to the north of the Municipality of Guayama, with no coastline nearby.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The project would not require the modification of any existing floodway.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

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

17. Would the project affect existing trees?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project would affect eight (8) trees. 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. If mitigation plan is required by DENR, a monetary compensation, according to the agreement, will be performed.

Social, Economic and Cultural Resources

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

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 families or businesses.

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.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project would require the acquisition of approximately 218 square meters of additional right of way to accommodate the riprap and gabion mattress at the storm sewer system entrance and discharge points.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project would not have any adverse impacts in the community cohesion of the adjacent neighborhood.

23. Would the project affect community services?

YES NO

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

24. Does the project consider non-discrimination issues?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project took into consideration non-discrimination practices. The project consists in corrective actions to guarantee a safer connection for the surrounding communities. By implementing these measures, the PRHTA made sure that the project does not cause disproportionately high and/or adverse environmental effects on low income and/ or minority population located near the project area. The project was developed in compliance with DOT Order 5610.2 (a) and Executive Order 12898.

25. Would the project have any impacts on existing noise levels?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

Due to the scope of the proposed project, no impact in the existing noise levels would be expected. A temporary increase in noise levels may result from construction works.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project would comply with NAAQS.

27. Would the project have any impacts in existing air quality levels?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project is not expected to have an impact on existing air quality levels. A temporary minor degradation of existing air quality levels may be expected during construction.

28. Would the project affect farmland areas?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project would not affect farmland areas.

29. Would the project entail any significant aesthetic effects?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project would not have significant aesthetic effects.

30. Would the project affect recreational areas?

YES NO

The proposed project would not affect recreational areas.

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

Additional Comments:

The proposed project consists in the reconstruction of an existing roadway without changing its configuration, so it would not involve any changes in the roadway 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.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

According to the proposed MOT traffic will be maintain open during construction working on half section of the roadway and managing traffic on the other half.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project does not require a bridge replacement.

35. Would the project affect a bridge or a culvert?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The project would not affect a bridge or culvert.

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

YES NO

No historic structure would be affected by the proposed project.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

No controversy on social, economic, or environmental grounds is expected with regards 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 archaeological remains which are important to history or pre-history?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

A Phase IA-IB Archaeological Study was completed for the proposed project and no archaeological remains were identified in the area. A consultation to SHPO was performed and they concurred with our determination on April 23, 2021.

40. Would the project affect any historic property?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

A Phase IA-IB Archaeological Study was completed for the proposed project and no archaeological remains were identified in the area. However, road PR-179 is a property eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. PRHTA understand that the proposed repairs will not adversely affect the characteristic that make this structure potentially historic. A consultation to SHPO was performed on April 5, 2021 and they concurred with our determination of no adverse effect on historic properties on April 23, 2021. See Appendix E.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed 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 require the realignment of a segment of an existing water distribution line located within the project right of way. Also, the proposed works will partially abandon a section of an existing 30” diam. RCP and reconnect it to a new 36” diameter pre-cast concrete pipe.

44. Would the project affect any airport clearance?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project does not affect airport clearance.

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

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The proposed project does not consider the accommodation of pedestrian and bicycle facilities.

The limited existing PR-179 right of way cannot accommodate such facilities.

46. Would the project require public involvement activities?

YES NO

Additional Comments:

The public would be informed the proposed works using message boards and public announcements through social medias and newspapers, as well as other methods prior the commencement of the construction phase. .

47. Would the project have any potential for controversy?

YES NO

No controversy is expected for the proposed project.

VII. Environmental Commitments required for the proposed project

1. The construction will be performed mostly within the existing ROW except for an additional area of approximately 218 square meters to be acquired and approximately 296 square meters of temporary construction easement.

2. The proposed project will not adverse effect historic properties. If unexpected cultural resources are encountered at any time within the project area, work shall cease immediately in the vicinity of such discoveries and SHPO shall be notified. After such notification, work shall not resume until written approval has been received from SHPO.

3. The project is not likely to adversely affect federally-listed species or their critical habitats. The implementation of PRHTA’s Best Management Practices (BMP) for Puerto Rican Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus brunnescenes), the Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus venator), and the Puerto Rican Boa (Epicrates inornatus) will be performed.

4. For erosion and sediment control (E&SC) in the project area, our Agency will require the authorization to prepare and implement an Single Incidental Permit (PUI, for its Spanish acronym) and a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES- SWPPP-CGP-2017) permit, if required. The project’s Contractor will also be required to comply with the E&SC plans and specifications prepared for the project, and any other applicable regulations.

5. During the construction the project limits would remain open to traffic in both directions A Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) Plan has been prepared for this project.

6. A note has been included in the final plans indicating that before excavation work begins, the Contractor shall coordinate with the DTOP Excavations, Demolitions and Pipeline Directorate that is responsible for coordinating with PRASA, PREPA and any other agency utilities to delimit the exact location of their underground utilities within the project site. An underground utilities study was done as part of the project, and the identified underground utilities have been drawn in the as-built plans for guidance.

7. Eight (8) trees will be affected by the proposed repairs. 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.

Project ER-HWY-308, PR-179, km-13.25, Guayama, P.R.

CE Approval

April 26, 2021

Date PRHTA Authorized Representative

Concurred by:

Date FHWA Environmental Specialist

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ANDRES

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Digitally signed by

ANDRES ALVAREZ-

IBANEZ

Date: 2021.04.27 21:21:53 -04'00'

Appendix A – Emergency Declared Documents

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, 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. 2017–21649 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–4338– DR; Docket ID FEMA–2017–0001]

Georgia; Amendment No. 3 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 Georgia (FEMA–4338–DR), dated September 15, 2017, and related determinations.

DATES: This amendment was issued September 26, 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 the incident period for this disaster is closed effective September 20, 2017.

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. 2017–21646 Filed 10–5–17; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 9111–23–P

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND

URBAN DEVELOPMENT

[Docket No. FR–6050–N–01]

Relief From HUD Requirements Available to PHAs To Assist With Recovery and Relief Efforts on Behalf of Families Affected by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria and Future Natural Disasters Where Major Disaster Declarations Might Be Issued in 2017

AGENCY: Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing, HUD.

ACTION: Notice.

SUMMARY: This notice advises the public that HUD, as a result of Presidentially declared Major Disaster Declarations (MDD) following Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria has established an expedited process for the review of requests for relief from HUD regulatory and/or administrative requirements (‘‘HUD requirements’’) for public housing agencies (PHAs) and Tribes or tribally designated housing entities (TDHEs) that are located in Texas, U.S.

Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Florida, and Georgia. The notice covers MDDs DR– 4332, issued on August 25, 2017, DR– 4335, issued on September 7, 2017, DR– 4336, issued on September 10, 2017, DR–4337, issued on September 10, 2017, DR–4338, issued on September 15, 2017, DR–4339 issued on September 20, 2017 and DR–4340 issued on September 20, 2017. Specifically, these PHAs and Tribes/TDHEs may request waivers of HUD requirements and receive expedited review of such requests. In addition, this notice advises that PHAs, Tribes and TDHEs located in areas covered by MDDs issued during the remainder of 2017 may utilize the flexibilities and expedited waiver process set out by this notice.

DATES: Applicable Date: October 6, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Shelia Bethea, Office of Field Operations, Office of Public and Indian Housing, Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 Seventh Street SW., Room 4112, Washington, DC 20410–5000, telephone number (202) 402–8120. Persons with hearing or speech impairments may access this number via TTY by calling the Federal Information Relay Service at (800) 877– 8339.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background Information

From a period beginning on August 23, 2017, areas in Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Florida and Georgia experienced severe storms and flooding from Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. MDDs covering these areas were issued on August 25, 2017, DR– 4332,1 DR–4335,2 September 7, 2017, DR–4336,3 September 10, 2017, DR– 4337,4 September 10, 2017, DR–4338,5 September 15, 2017, DR–4339,6

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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

SECU…