Categorical Excusion Form (NEPA) AC-815579.pdf

CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION

AC –804544

Federal No. ER-9999 (313)

EMERGENCY RELIEF PROGRAM

LANDSLIDES AND ROAD DAMAGE REPAIR

ER-HWY-71 (PR-119 Km. 56.9)

LAS MARIAS, PUERTO RICO

November 2019

Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority

AC-804544

ER-9999 (313)

ER-HWY-71 PR-119 km. 56.9

EMERGENCY RELIEF PROGRAM LANDSLIDE AND ROAD DAMAGE REPAIR

Las Marías, Puerto Rico

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Categorical Exclusion Action Classification Form

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

III. PURPOSE AND NEED

IV. PLANNING CONSISTENCY PHASE I

V. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES EVALUATED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION

APPENDIXES

Appendix A Emergency Declared Documents

Appendix B Figures and Plans

Appendix C Detailed Damage Inspection Report (DDIR)

Appendix D USFWS Species List, Consultation Letter and Project Guidelines (BMP’s)

Appendix E SHPO Concurrence Letter and Archaeological Evaluation Stage I

Appendix F Categorical Exclusion Checklist

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PUERTO RICO HIGHWAY AND TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY

CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION ACTION CLASSIFICATION FORM

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

State Project No. AC-804544 Federal Project No.

ER-9999 (313)

ER-HWY-71

Project Name

Emergency Relief Program Landslides and Road Damage Repair PR-119, km. 56.9

ER-HWY-71

Route No. PR-119

From Milepost 56.9 To Milepost 56.9

Municipality (ies) Las Marías Length 0.0521 km

ROW Cost $8,400.0 Construction Cost $467,716.50

EXISTING FACILITY PROPOSED FACILITY

ROW Width 10 meters approximately ROW Width 10 meters approximately

No. Lanes & Width Two (2) lanes 3.1 to 3.5 mts.

No. Lanes & Width Two (2) lanes 3.1 to 3.5 mts.

Shoulder Width

N/A Median

N/A

Shoulder Width

N/A Median N/A

Overall Roadway Width

6.7 to 7.0 mts. Overall Roadway Width

6.7 to 7.0 mts.

II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION

On September 6 and 20, 2017 Hurricanes Irma and María passed through the Island and impacted many areas and structures such as Puerto Rico Highway and Transportation Authority (PRHTA) highways, roads, bridges and infrastructure. As consequence of the damages, the Governor of Puerto Rico, Hon. Ricardo Roselló and President of the United States Mr. Donald Trump declared a state of emergency in the Island.

See copy of the Emergency Declaration in Appendix A.

Congress authorized in Title 23, United States Code, Section 125, a special program from the Highway Trust Fund for the repair or reconstruction of Federal-aid highways and roads on Federal lands which have suffered serious damage as a result of (1) natural disasters or (2) catastrophic failures from an external cause. This program, commonly referred to as the emergency relief or ER program, supplements the

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EMERGENCY RELIEF PROGRAM LANDSLIDE AND ROAD DAMAGE REPAIR

commitment of resources by States, their political subdivisions, or other Federal agencies to help pay for unusually heavy expenses resulting from extraordinary conditions.

This new program assists States and public transportation systems with emergency related expenses.

Emergencies are defined as natural disasters affecting a wide area or a catastrophic failure from an external cause for which the governor of a State has declared an emergency (and the Secretary of Transportation has concurred) or the President has declared a major disaster. The program funds capital projects to protect, repair, reconstruct, or replace equipment and facilities.

The applicability of the ER program to a natural disaster is based on the extent and intensity of the disaster.

Damage to highways must be severe, occur over a wide area, and result in unusually high expenses to the highway agency. Applicability of ER to a catastrophic failure due to an external cause is based on the criteria that the failure was not the result of an inherent flaw in the facility but was sudden, caused a disastrous impact on transportation services, and resulted in unusually high expenses to the highway agency.

The ER-HWY-71 site is located at PR-119, kilometer 56.9 in the Municipality of San Germán. See Appendix B, Figures 1 Location Maps and Figures 2 Aerial Photos. The PR- 119 is a secondary highway that runs from north to south and connects the towns of Camuy, San Sebastián, Las Marías and San Germán.

From the preliminary visit, the landslide is 35 meters in length approximately. The existing roadway varies from 5 to 7 meters approximately. Currently, the road is open to traffic with one lane restrictions and with safety measures.

The proposed activities to repair the damages on PR-119 caused by landslides includes the following:

ER-HWY-71 Km. 56.9

1. Construction of a combination of a gabion wall with a fill slope is the alternative recommended for this site. See Appendix B, figures 3 and 4 Project layout and Details respectively. Will impact a larger area than gabion construction alone. The utility work can be phased out in such way that the road is partially closed (one lane available) allowing for traffic on PR-119 to be uninterrupted during construction.

These alternatives were analyzed in terms of cost, schedule, constructability and feasibility for each site.

Due to the nature of the work required and the existing road section, the PR-119 will need to be temporary closed and an alternate route established during most part of the construction works. PRHTA should consider having a single project for these three sites so maintenance of traffic, project and site logistics and overall reconstruction can be expedited and efficiently built.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adjuntas

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III. PURPOSE AND NEED

The PR- 119 is a secondary highway that runs from north to south and connects the towns of Camuy, San Sebastián, Las Marías and San Germán

The proposed project consists in the following works:

1. Reconstruction of roadway segment.

2. Construction of a fill embankment and a retaining wall.

3. Construction of drainage system, including headwalls.

4. Installation of utilities affected by the road damage.

5. Cold milling of the existing pavement

6. Installation or replacement of guardrails, thermoplastic paint, raised markers, traffic signs, barbed wire, chain-link fences and highway kilometers

7. Other miscellaneous works

The construction required additional Right of Way as part of the replacement embankment, landslide correction and drainage system. The Emergency repair work would be performed to restore essential travel, enough to allow traffic to travel over it safely, minimize the extent of damage, and / or protect the remaining facilities.

IV. PLANNING CONSISTENCY PHASE I

Estimated construction time: 8 months

Estimated Construction Cost: $467,716.50

Estimated date for ROW: First Semester 2020

Estimated date for PS&E: First Semester 2020

Estimated date for Construction phase begins: First Semester 2020

Project STIP Consistency: This Project will be financed with funds from the Emergency Relief Program associated to Hurricanes Irma and María. Enclosed is the DDIR document. See Appendix C.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adjuntas

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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 23 CFR§771.117(c) for FHWA actions or pursuant to 23 CFR§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.

(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.

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(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 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.

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

(23) Federally-funded projects:

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

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

(24) Localized geotechnical and other investigation to provide information for preliminary design and for environmental analyses and permitting purposes, such as drilling test bores for soil

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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 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;

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(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.

V. 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 resources is expected.

2. Does the project involve habitat here 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 : Epicrates inornatus (Puerto Rican Boa), Amazona vittata (Puerto Rican Parrot), Buteo platypterus brunnescens (Puerto Rican Broad-winged Hawk), and Accipiter striatus venator (Puerto

Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk).

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

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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 thin 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 (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 : Epicrates inornatus (Puerto Rican Boa), Amazona vittata (Puerto Rican Parrot), Buteo platypterus brunnescens (Puerto Rican Broad-winged Hawk), and Accipiter striatus venator (Puerto

Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk).

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. Conservation measures to avoid and minimize harm to the aforementioned listed species that could be encountered has been included in Appendix D.

4. The project affects USACE jurisdictional areas?

Yes No

Additional comments:

The project would not affect USACE jurisdictional areas.

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

Yes No

The proposed project would not affect permanent or temporary wetlands.

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

Additional comments:

The project would not affect streams or wetlands covered under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.

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

Yes No

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

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

No U.S. Coast Guard permit is required.

9. Does the project locate within a floodplain zone?

The project is located outside floodplain zone. According to FEMA Maps Sheet 72000C1010H dated November 18, 2009 the project is located in Zone X that is defined by FEMA as “Area determined to be outside of 2% annual chance of floodplain. See Figure Number 6, FEMA Map.

10. Does the project affect water bodies?

The works would be carried out within existing roadway and landslide affected area which is outside any other water body’s jurisdictional area.

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

The proposed project would not require the preparation of an H-H study.

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12. Does the project affect Wild and Scenic Rivers?

The proposed project would affect any designated Wild and Scenic Rivers for Puerto Rico.

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

The proposed project would not affect Essential Fish Habitat.

14. Does the project affect coastal municipalities?

The project is located outside of coastal or maritime zones.

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

The proposed project would not affect the existing floodplain levels.

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

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

17. The project affects trees?

The proposed project will affect approximately 14 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.

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SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES

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

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

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

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

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

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

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

Yes No

The project will be built within the existing right of way limits.

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

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

23. Does the project affect the community services?

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

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24. Does the project consider the non-discrimination considerations?

The proposed project considers the non-discrimination considerations.

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

No effects on noise levels are expected. A temporary minimal increase of the existing noise levels may be expected during the construction phase of the project.

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

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

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

Due to the scope of the project, no impacts to the existing air quality levels would be expected. A temporary impact of the existing air quality levels would be expected during the construction phase of the project.

28. Does the project affect farmlands areas?

The proposed project does not affect farmlands areas.

29. Does the project have any significant aesthetic effects?

No significant aesthetic effects are expected.

30. Does the project affect recreational areas?

The proposed project does not affect recreational areas.

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

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

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

The proposed project would not have permanent effect on local traffic patterns or community cohesiveness. During the construction, the road segment (at km. 56.9) will remain open to traffic. Currently, the road is open to traffic with lane restrictions in this segment.

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

Yes No

Additional comments:

The part of the existing embankment slope was washed away downstream. Currently, the road open to traffic with safety measures such as New Jersey barriers. A project specific MOT will be prepared, implemented and maintained during construction phase.

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 on the existing facility?

Yes No

The proposed project would not require a bridge replacement.

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

The project would not affect a bridge or a culvert structure.

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

Additional comments:

No historical structure would be affected by the proposed project. 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 concurrence from the State

Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) 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?

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:

Based on archaeological evaluation, there is no archeological remains presented in the area of the proposed reconstruction project. The project of reconstruction and rehabilitation would be performed in the disturbed area by the landslide. See Appendix

E Archaeological Evaluation Stage I. The slope stabilization would require minor ROW acquisition.

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40. Would the project affect any historic property?

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 sites were evaluated by a qualified archaeologist. The study had a determination of no effect on historic properties due to the undertaking and no further studies were recommended.

The letter documenting concurrence from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is enclosed (Appendix E). The letter requesting concurrence from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is enclosed (Appendix E). If unexpected cultural resources are encountered at any time within the project area, work should cease in the immediate vicinity of such discoveries. SHPO would be notified. Project activities should not resume without authorization from SHPO.

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

Yes No

The project will 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?

The proposed project would require the restoration of existing utilities affected by the landslide. Also, additional consultation with PRASA, PREPA, and the JRTC will be performed as required.

44. Would the project affect the airport clearance?

The project would not affect the airport clearance.

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

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

However, crosswalks will be painted to direct pedestrian crossing throughout the intersection.

46. Would the project require public involvement activities?

The public will be informed of the proposed project using variable message signs and other effective means and methods as approved by local and federal regulations.

47. The project has any potential of controversy?

No potential of controversy is expected for the proposed project.

Environmental Commitments required for the proposed project:

1. The proposed project reconstruction and rehabilitation improvements will be performed within the existing right-of-way. However, the slope stabilization would require minor ROW acquisition.

2. For erosion and sedimentation control in the project area, PRHTA will request authorization to prepare and implement a Consolidated General Permit and National Pollutant Discharge

Elimination System (NPDES) permit (if required). Also, the contractor will be requested to comply with any other applicable regulations.

3. Based on observed and subsurface testing, there is no potential to negatively impact cultural resources. If unexpected cultural resources are encountered at any time within the project area, work should cease in the immediate vicinity of such discoveries and FHWA and SHPO notified.

Project activities should not resume without a written notification from SHPO.

4. During the construction, traffic in both directions will be maintained. Construction works could be phased in such way that road may remain open to traffic at all times. A project specific MOT will be prepared.

APPENDIXES

APPENDIX A

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

Brown Fund; 97.032, Crisis Counseling;

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

97.046, Fire Management Assistance Grant;

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

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

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

BILLING CODE 9111–23–P

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND

SECURITY

Federal Emergency Management Agency

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

Puerto Rico; Emergency and Related Determinations

AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS.

ACTION: Notice.

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

DATES: The declaration was issued September 5, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

97.046, Fire Management Assistance Grant;

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

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

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

BILLING CODE 9111–23–P

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND

SECURITY

Federal Emergency Management Agency

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

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

AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS.

ACTION: Notice.

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

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

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

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

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

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

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

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

97.046, Fire Management Assistance Grant;

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

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

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

BILLING CODE 9111–23–P

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

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

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

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

97.046, Fire Management Assistance Grant;

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

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

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

BILLING CODE 9111–15–P

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND

SECURITY

Federal Emergency Management Agency

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

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

AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS.

ACTION: Notice.

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

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

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

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

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

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

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

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

97.046, Fire Management Assistance Grant;

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

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

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

BILLING CODE 9111–23–P

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND

SECURITY

Federal Emergency Management Agency

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

Puerto Rico; Major Disaster and Related Determinations

AGENCY: Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS.

ACTION: Notice.

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

DATES: The declaration was issued September 20, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

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

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

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

(the ‘‘Stafford Act’’), as follows:

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

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

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

Direct Federal assistance is authorized.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4 https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4337, designating Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Flagler, Gilchrist, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Levy, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Nassau,…