CONSULTANT SCOPE OF WORK

Transcription

1 Consultant Services CONSULTANT SCOPE OF WORK ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT LA 23 RAILWAY RELOCATION PE/NEPA PROJECT JEFFERSON AND PLAQUEMINES PARISHES, LOUISIANA RPC Task LA23RR1 RPC/ The Regional Planning Commission for Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Tammany and Tangipahoa Parishes (RPC) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) have entered into a Cooperative Agreement to conduct an Environmental Review and prepare an environmental document for the relocation of the New Orleans Gulf Coast Railway (NOGC) that serves Jefferson and Plaquemines Parishes in the New Orleans region of Southeast Louisiana. The FRA is the lead federal agency in the preparation and oversight of the environmental documentation. Funding, however, originated with FHWA and certain additional traffic analysis is required by FHWA to fulfill FHWA and LADOTD thresholds. The RPC will complete all tasks outlined in the Statement of Work between the FRA and RPC. The RPC seeks qualified consultant teams to assist RPC in fulfillment of all required FRA and FHWA deliverables. The consultant team will prepare and summarize all technical information and analytical findings in accordance with requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), as amended, the Council on Environmental Quality s regulations implementing NEPA, and the FRA s procedures for the Consideration of Environmental Impacts (Environmental Procedures). In addition, the Consultant will be responsible to ensure dialogue and coordination with LADOTD and FHWA are performed so that the process and final product(s) also satisfy any LADOTD and FHWA concerns for roadway implications. The consultant, in partnership with RPC, is expected to coordinate with FRA on a continuous basis through bi-weekly or monthly coordination calls that will be outlined more fully in the Project Management Plan. Work performed under this grant is a programmatic FRA action. Work is being undertaken with the reasonable intent of an Environmental Assessment resulting in a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). If it is determined that the project has significant impacts and requires an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), the EIS could be performed under this contract via a supplemental agreement and only if sufficient additional funding is available. The General Objective The general objective of this Project will be to identify and develop a preferred alternative to the current NOGC railway alignment, or to identify transportation systems safety improvements along the existing NOGC rail corridor that could be implemented to address existing transportation, safety and quality of life needs. Study Area Location The boundaries of the study area are the Harvey Canal on the west, the Mississippi River on the north, the Jefferson/Orleans Parish line on the east, and Walker Road on the south. The portion of the NOGC

2 that is the subject of the Project runs from the western side of the Harvey Canal, in Harvey, LA, to near the intersection of LA 23/Belle Chasse Highway and Walker Road in Belle Chasse, LA. In Gretna, the railway corridor parallels 4 th Street and runs down the center of Madison Street, both classified as urban collectors and in densely developed neighborhoods populated by residences, schools, and churches. The portion of the railway that runs parallel to LA 23 is similarly developed, and intersects with several major west bank arterials, including US 90B, Terry Parkway, and Behrman Highway (LA 428). The railway crosses two major water bodies on moveable bridges: the Harvey Canal near 4 th Street in Harvey and the Intracoastal Waterway near LA 23 in Belle Chasse. Although the area is protected by levees and flood protection walls, most of the area is mapped within the 100-year floodplain. The area is primarily developed for industrial, commercial, and residential uses, but does contain some undeveloped areas vegetated with trees and navigation and transportation of goods. The project area spans the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW), a channel used for commercial navigation and transportation of goods. The project area also contains other waterways and wetlands development activities. The project area lies within the Mississippi River deltaic plain and the Louisiana Coastal Zone. The Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, a Navy airport with a main runway oriented southwest to northeast, is located east of the project area. The Proposed Action will require Federal Railroad Administration involvement and permits from multiple federal, state, and local entities. The consultant team shall provide the services described below for the LA 23 Rail Relocation Project PE/NEPA. All products will be reviewed and approved by the RPC project manager prior to submission to FRA. Phase I Project Background and Management, Data Collection and Scoping 1. Previous Studies The consultant will be responsible for reviewing previous studies or documents relevant to the proposed rail line relocation and related improvements, including but not limited to the following: - Plaquemines Parish Intermodal Feasibility Study December, 2002: RPC - Peters Road Supplemental EA with FONSI December, 2009: RPC RPC will provide these two documents. Other items to be researched by the consultant include Jefferson and Plaquemines Parish planning studies influencing the study area and any economic development reports for undeveloped areas in the project vicinity. The Peters Road roadway corridor is currently in final design and the consultant will be responsible for coordinating the proposed alternative railway alignment(s) with this effort. The consultant will be responsible for reviewing the findings and recommendations from the previous studies and preparing a summary Memorandum of key issues. Task 1 Deliverables: Compendium of previous studies; Summary Memorandum of key issues 2. Detailed Project Work Plan, Project Management Plan and Project Agreements The FRA requires RPC to submit a Detailed Project Work Plan, which consists of the activities and steps necessary to complete all tasks in the Grantor (FRA)/Grantee (RPC) agreement and an

3 executed agreement with the host railroad to access the railroad s property to perform the preliminary engineering and/or environmental work. FRA also requires the submission of a Project Management Plan which describes the approach for team organization, team decision-making, roles and responsibilities and interaction with FRA. These required documents will be created as one submission by RPC. RPC will be responsible for organizing and submitting the above documents to FRA. The selected consultant is required to provide RPC with any needed supporting documentation for the above reports and to work with the RPC to come to resolution on management issues and identify any interdependencies among tasks. Supporting documentation includes the consultant budget and schedule, the host railroad agreement between the consultant and the NOGC RR, graphics for all organizational charts. The consultant will work with RPC as necessary to advise and provide additional information as needed for submission of these documents. All information, unless preapproved, will go through and be submitted to the FRA by the RPC Project Manager. Task 2 Deliverables: Consultant Budget and Schedule Host Railroad Agreement Organizational Chart graphics Consultant and subconsultant task descriptions 3. Agency and Stakeholder Involvement Plan Due to the intensive nature of the NEPA process to facilitate communication and coordination to accomplish key milestones and engage an array of stakeholders, the Consultant, working closely with the RPC Project Manager, will develop an Agency and Stakeholder Involvement Plan after the Detailed Project Work, Schedule and Project Management Plan are approved by FRA. The Agency and Stakeholder Involvement Plan will create a plan of meeting and outreach activities. It will identify stakeholders and groups to be engaged in the range of activities within the Environmental Review process and work to develop a stakeholder database and an invitation list for each meeting. The consultant will establish the number of meetings, the preparation and resources (manpower and materials) needed for each meeting or outreach activity, and establish a schedule with potential locations. The plan will set out a blueprint for creation and management of sign-in sheets, signage, agendas, minutes, comment forms, transcriptions, mapping and photography, exhibits, handouts and distribution of the information to be shared or collected at each activity, task or milestone. The plan will also detail advertisements, required periods of advertisement, timing of meeting notifications, required comment periods, confidentiality, storage of materials, number of copies and the process to update contacts. The consultant will demonstrate how public involvement activities will be linked to key milestones in the planning /engineering and NEPA process. The Agency and Public Involvement Plan will at a minimum include planning for the following meetings or tasks and the consultant will allow for adequate contingency for additional, unplanned meetings: Project Management Committee Scoping meetings/process defined Solicitation of Views packets and distribution Agency and Local Officials Meetings Alternative Outreach Meetings Informational Meetings

4 Public Meetings Public Hearings (see items 14 and 15) Agency Review of Technical Information Draft Environmental Document Review Final Environmental Document Review Draft FONSI Final Environmental Document Distribution Task 3 Deliverables: An Agency and Stakeholder Involvement Plan Report including a schedule, a spreadsheet of required elements for each meeting and a descriptive narrative with sufficient detail to reflect all requirements for each meeting or task listed above. 4. Scoping, Purpose and Need Statement The consultant shall develop a Scoping process to identify the affected public and agency concerns and define the issues and alternatives that will be examined. They will follow the approved Agency and Stakeholder Involvement Plan for outreach and communication. The consultant will prepare a Purpose and Need (P&N) statement that forms the basis against which the alternatives are evaluated, including the no build option. The P&N clearly identifies the problem to be solved by the proposed action and the elements contributing to the problem that must be addressed by proposed solutions. The P&N statement draws on existing and projected conditions, proposed improvements, environmental quality concerns, and community characteristics in the Study Area. The consultant will undertake the following activities to develop the statement of Purpose and Need: - Review the goals and objectives in previous studies documents. - Assess the need for the rail facilities relocation and extension and other improvements considering the Study Area limits; existing and proposed facilities and services; level of train service; growth in local, national, and international trade; local transportation goals and objectives; identified problems along the rail corridors; and other goals. Identify and analyze system improvements to meet annunciated project goals. - Identify opportunities and constraints in addressing identified needs to help further define alternatives and to take advantage of existing and planned transportation improvements (including improvements to Peters Rd. and SR 23) and economic development potential and job growth opportunities. Following RPC/DOTD and FRA approval, the consultant will distribute the P&N statement to federal, state and local agencies, Native American tribes, and the railroads. The P&N statement will be made available to the public through the Public Involvement Plan. Task 4 Deliverables: Scoping Report Draft Purpose and Need Statement Final Purpose and Need Statement 5. Traffic and Grade Crossing Delay Analysis The consultant will develop a baseline scenario for existing rail, vehicular, and marine transportation operating within the study area. The consultant will work with the RPC, DOTD, the Coast Guard,

5 NOGC and other agencies to collect existing data on the number and characteristics of existing modal operations, including historical growth rates, rail data, vehicle traffic counts, turning movement counts, marine traffic on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) and vehicle delay measurements at key grade crossing locations, to establish the baseline scenario, for use in analyzing both the no build and build alternative(s). Per arrangements with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), congestion and delay data collection tasks will be completed as described below. Train crossings interrupt roadway traffic flow for a period of time that is dependent on the speed and length of the train. The proposed changes in train volume as a result of the future No Build and Build Alternatives would cause increased vehicle delay at those at-grade crossings where train traffic increases and an improvement in vehicle delay at those at-grade crossings where train traffic decreases. Factors in the vehicle delay analysis include: The number of trains per day before and after the proposed project, The estimated time it takes for a train to pass the highway/rail at-grade crossing; and Existing and projected roadway traffic volumes. Several values for each highway/rail at-grade crossing will be calculated and included in the analysis. All new and existing at-grade crossings will be evaluated and results will be summarized in a technical memorandum. Existing conditions, No-Build, No-Build with highway TSM Alternatives, and conditions under the Build Alternatives will be examined for the following parameters: Blocked crossing time per train Average delay per delayed roadway vehicle Vehicle queue length Average delay for all vehicles Total vehicle traffic delay Traffic LOS The following sections briefly describe the parameters that will be used to measure the roadway and rail operational conditions at highway/rail at-grade crossings. 5.1 Blocked Crossing Time per Train (Dc) The time required for a train to cross the intersecting roadway will be estimated. This time is called the blocked crossing time. This value is used to determine the length of time drivers wait when trains pass through a highway/rail at-grade crossing. Average train speed is a major factor in this calculation. This speed is dependent not only on track conditions and train operating characteristics, but also on intersecting commuter and freight rail traffic. 5.2 Average Delay per Delayed Vehicle (Da) The average delay per delayed vehicle is the average amount of time that a driver would be delayed at a highway/rail at-grade crossing as a result of a single train crossing. It assumes a uniform arrival of vehicles. Vehicles arrive at a constant rate. When the blocked crossing period begins, vehicles begin to queue. When the blocked crossing period ends, queued vehicles begin

6 to depart at the constant vehicle departure rate. The departure rate continues until the departure curve intersects the arrival curve, signifying the dissipation of the queue. 5.3 Vehicle Queue Length (Q) The vehicle queue is the estimated number of vehicles in line at the end of the blocked crossing time of a single train event. The vehicle queue is equal to the number of vehicles that arrive during the blocked crossing time (Dc). The vehicle queue during the peak hour of roadway traffic will be estimated. The peak-hour traffic will be assumed to be 10 percent of the ADT volume a typical assumption used by traffic engineers. The vehicle queue at the end of the blocked crossing time will be calculated. 5.4 Average Delay for All Vehicles (Dv) The average delay per vehicle is the average amount of time that a vehicle is delayed at that intersection. 5.5 Average Number of Vehicles Delayed Per Day (Td) The average number of vehicles delayed per day equals the number of drivers in a 24-hour period that would be stopped for trains at highway/rail at-grade crossings. The average number of vehicles delayed per day per crossing will be estimated. 5.6 Traffic Level of Service The vehicle delay effects at highway/rail at-grade crossings using the LOS concept at signalized intersections, as documented in the 2010 Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) (Transportation Research Board [TRB] 2010) will also be estimated. Use of the HCM procedures for signalized intersections is acceptable for the following reasons: the absence of a similar measure of efficiency for highway/rail at-grade crossings, and similarities between signalized intersection operation and highway/rail at-grade crossing operation. 5.7 Total Daily Average Vehicle Traffic Delay The total average vehicle delay will be calculated for each crossing over a 24-hour period and multiplied by the number of vehicles delayed to estimate the total daily average vehicle traffic delay. All of the above factors will be calculated based on existing and proposed values for the number of trains (N), average train speed (V), length of trains (L), and the number of traffic lanes (NL) for the highway/rail at-grade crossing. The existing LOS for each highway/rail at-grade crossing will be determined. The LOS refers to the efficiency at which a highway/rail at-grade crossing operates when a train passes through. To analyze the existing and future year traffic delays at crossings, data will be compiled from several sources, including consultant collected traffic data for major roadway as determined by the Project Management Committee (PMC) and the following: FRA location and inventory databases, which include information about highway/rail at-grade crossings, such as ADT data NOGC Railway databases for number of trains per day, train lengths and speeds LADOTD roadway ADT data

7 NOGC s Operating Plan The consultant will analyze existing railroad operating conditions in consultation with NOGC and other railroads operating in the study area. Conduct one meeting with the railroads to obtain the latest railroad infrastructure and operational data such as valuation maps, track diagrams, timetables, yard plans, schedules, interchange procedures, and operating statistics, etc. The consultant will survey the NOGC about railroad traffic growth forecasts over the next thirty years. The consultant will establish the base year and forecast years in consultation with the Project Management Committee (PMC). Some data supplied by NOGC and other railroads may be confidential and may not be released, unless approved for release by NOGC or the American Association of Railroads (AAR). The consultant will discuss the requirements of the Traffic Analyses for all transportation modes with RPC prior to initiating data collection activities. RPC s Transportation Model will be used to assist in establishing horizon year traffic forecasts in coordination with the New Orleans Gulf Coast Railroad (NOGC). The consultant will prepare a draft Traffic Analyses Report for submission to RPC for review and comment prior to finalization. Upon approval, the consultant will prepare the final Traffic Analyses Report and provide five copies along with an electronic version in.pdf format to RPC. Task 5 Deliverables: Traffic Analysis Report (rail (freight and passenger), vehicular and marine traffic data) Baseline and Forecast Findings Phase II Alternatives Studies The objective of this phase is to develop all reasonable alternatives consistent with the purpose and need for the project, including the no build alternative and those introduced through the public process. A project-based Geographic Information System (ArcGIS Project) will be used throughout the project to help identify physical and environmental constraints, evaluate potential environmental impacts, and to clearly present findings for stakeholder review and comment in the development and comparison of alternatives. All data will be provided for all Alternatives considered. This study phase concludes with a recommendation of a Preferred Alternative. 6. Geographic Information System/Environmental Inventory In cooperation with RPC, the consultant will develop geo-referenced data sets that inform engineering alternatives. All data will be stored in a File GeoDatabase compatible with ESRI s ArcGIS All vector data will be provided in the same coordinate system within the geodatabase. Raster data can be forwarded in its original projection. All map products, views and layouts will be set to view in the local State Plane LA South NAD83 feet coordinate system. The consultant will collect existing data from any source necessary and prepare an inventory of social, economic, environmental, physical and cultural resources potentially impacted by the project alternatives and enter this information into an ArcGIS Project for subsequent review, analysis, and screening of alternatives. This information will be supplemented with field data, as appropriate, or as may be requested by RPC/DOTD/FRA.

8 6.0 GIS Metadata The consultant will develop and maintain metadata for all GIS layers. The consultant will adhere to Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC) standards for newly created data layers. All data layers included in any map product will be cited with a minimum of data provider and year of the data. The consultant will maintain and update the ArcGIS Project throughout the duration of the project. At project completion, the consultant will deliver the ArcGIS Project containing all data and metadata within a geodatabase to RPC and DOTD as a Map Package file on one or more DVDs as a series of self-extracting files. 6.1 Project Mapping The consultant will make use of available aerial imagery and vector data for producing exhibits for the Study Area. These will include but are not limited to: o The most current as well as the highest resolution digital orthophotography available. o The most current and highest resolution lidar available. o Digital parish roadway data layers obtained from Jefferson Parish and Plaquemines Parish and LA DOTD. Roadway data will be edited within the LADOTD geodatabase. If there are discrepancies between the local data and LADOTD data, the verified linework will be entered (or edited) within the LADOTD geodatabase. o Displays will be reviewed prior to meetings to review appropriate seals, citations, disclaimers etc. All data layers included in any map product will be cited with a minimum of data provider and year of the data. 6.2 Environmental Inventory shall include but not be limited to: Waters of the U.S., including Wetlands The project study area lies adjacent to the Mississippi River and within portions of the 100-year floodplain. The project study area contains the GIWW, Harvey Canal No.1, Bayou Barataria, Bayou Barriere, and numerous canals and ditches. Undeveloped portions of the project study area appear to contain various types of freshwater wetland (e.g., forested, shrub, emergent) with a range of hydrologic conditions (e.g., permanent to seasonal inundation/saturation). The consultant will review aerial photography, National Wetland Inventory (NWI) digital data, the National Hydrography Dataset, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic maps, the US Army Corps of Engineers Navigable Waterways dataset, and information from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to identify potential waters of the U.S., including wetlands, within the study area and potentially impacted by the proposed action. Acreage of wetlands impacted and their value will be calculated and exhibits suitable for

9 reproduction will be developed by the consultant indicating the limits of wetlands in the study area and the areas to be impacted by the project. The consultant will conduct a preliminary wetland delineation in accordance with guidelines found in the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Atlantic and Gulf Coast Plan Region (United States Army Corps of Engineers, Wetland Regulatory Assistance Program, 2010) for the preferred alternative. Subsequent to the wetland delineation, the consultant will prepare a wetland data report, using the latest federal criteria, for submittal to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District. Photographs of each soil sample with the appropriate Munsell soil chart in the same photograph will be included in the wetland data report. Each wetland area will be located on a quadrangle sheet as well as a site plan with the station numbers depicted. Five copies of the draft and final wetland data report and accompanying data will be produced by the consultant and made available to for distribution as directed by RPC Streams, Scenic Streams and Water Bodies The consultant will obtain information on streams and water bodies for the study area from the USGS National Hydrography dataset. Information will also be obtained for any rivers within the study area designated as Wild and Scenic by the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act or as Scenic Streams by the State of Louisiana Water Quality The consultant will obtain and review water quality information for the study area from the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality Coastal Zones The consultant will obtain and review coastal zone and coastal conservation plan (CCP) boundaries as they may pertain to the study area from the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Coastal Management Division as well as all projects through local coastal management programs and the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Protected Species Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, and Proposed Threatened species are protected under the provisions of Sections 7 and 9 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), as amended. The consultant will acquire federal and state-listed species and critical habitat locations from the FWS and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, Natural Heritage Program (NHP). The consultant will need to execute a data sharing agreement with the NHP for data usage. Because of the sensitivity of the endangered and threatened species data, the site locations will not be made available to the public.

10 6.2.6 Cultural Resources The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires consideration of important historic and cultural aspects of our national heritage, while Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, as amended, requires federal agencies to take into account the effect that an undertaking will have on historic properties. Historic properties are those included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) or within local historic districts and may include structures, buildings, districts, objects, and sites. The consultant will obtain and enter into the ArcGIS Project database archaeological sites and architectural resources within the study area, as obtained from the Louisiana Division of Archaeology (DA) and the Division of Historic Preservation (DHP). If the proposed action would potentially affect any site eligible for the NRHP, then consultation with the Louisiana SHPO would be required. Because of the sensitivity of the archaeological data, the site locations will not be made available to the public Floodplains The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) issues Flood Insurance Rate Maps as part of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) which designate the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) in land areas covered by the floodwaters of the one percent annual chance flood, or 100-year flood. The project study area may contain areas within designated 100-year floodplains. The consultant will acquire current and proposed FEMA Digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps (DFIRM) for the study area from FEMA for input into the ArcGIS Project database. Potential impacts to floodplains as a result of the proposed action may include filling, grading, channel relocation, new bridges and culverts, and other activities. Impacts to the 100-year floodplain typically require coordination and approval from the local floodplain administrator(s) and FEMA, and may require flood damage reduction or mitigation measures Levees and Flood Protection Projects The project study area contains or is adjacent to levees which serve as flood control and hurricane protection risk reduction along the Mississippi River and portions of the GIWW. It is anticipated, therefore, that the Proposed Action would require a flood control permit from one or more levee districts and reviewed by Louisiana Office of Coastal Activites and the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, DOTD, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The levee districts with jurisdiction in the project study area are the West Jefferson Levee District and Algiers Levee District, which make up the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority West, and the Plaquemines Parish Government. If the Proposed Action would alter, use, or occupy a levee from a federal flood control project, then it must be demonstrated that this will not be injurious to the public interest and will not impair the usefulness of the federal project in order to obtain approval from the Secretary of the Army through the USACE.

11 6.2.9 Air Quality The Clean Air Act (CAA) of 1970 and EPA regulatory programs govern air pollution assessment and control. In Louisiana, EPA and LDEQ are responsible for air quality protection. Under authority of the CAA, EPA establishes primary and secondary pollutant criteria called the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Jefferson and Plaquemines Parishes are presently in attainment of ozone standards. There is currently no model for project level ozone. Railroad emissions from locomotives and railroad ancillary activities are analyzed under EPA s general conformity rules in non-attainment areas. It is anticipated, therefore, that the consultant will need to perform a general conformity analysis for the ozone precursor pollutants. Emissions can also be calculated from proposed project fuel consumption, if available. If the Proposed Action has the potential to emit air contaminants, it shall be further evaluated for the applicability of exemptions and air permitting requirements. For instance, construction activities for the Proposed Action should meet ambient air quality, visibility, odor and opacity standards and implement reasonable particulate matter control. An air quality evaluation related to the potential movement of coal by rail and resultant air contaminants is required in this task. Task 6.11 Deliverables: Air Quality Impact Assessment Summary Noise and Vibration The consultant will submit a noise protocol for DOTD approval (following Federal Transit Administration guidance Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment, May, 2006, as referenced in Environmental Impact and Related Procedures, FHWA and FTA, effective April 23, The consultant will follow FTA guidance, Appendix D: Determining Existing Noise, to obtain ambient noise measurements for the existing exterior sound environment Navigation The project study area crosses the GIWW, a channel used for extensive commercial navigation along the Gulf Coast. The project study area also crosses the Harvey Canal which connects to the Mississippi River. Both of these channels are navigable waterways subject to U.S. Coast Guard jurisdiction. Any bridge or causeway proposed across a navigable waterway of the U.S. requires a Coast Guard bridge permit under Section 9 of the Rivers and harbors Act. The Coast Guard will impose any necessary conditions on the location and plans for bridges to ensure they are constructed, maintained, and operated in the interest of public navigation. The Proposed Action may require a Coast Guard bridge permit and be subject to requirements that it not hinder navigation, such as using a lift bridge with a tower on either side of the waterway Water Wells The consultant will obtain water well information for the study area from the DOTD (Now DNRs) Water Well Registry website for use in the ArcGIS Project.

12 6.3.5 Oil and Gas Wells The consultant will obtain oil and gas well information for the study area from the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources for use in the ArcGIS Project Hazardous Materials Sites The consultant will obtain hazardous materials site locations for the study area from Environmental Data Resources (EDR) risk management information reports, Sanborn maps, local data sources such as emergency response agencies, GOHSEP, and historic aerial photography and enter this data into the ArcGIS Project Existing and Future Land Use & Zoning The consultant will obtain existing and future land use and zoning information for the study area from Jefferson Parish and Plaquemines Parish for the ArcGIS Project Parks, Community Facilities & Recreational Sources All public facilities, including recreational and public park land, will be identified and delineated for the study area. Research, analysis, and documentation of compliance with Section 4(f) of the USDOT Transportation Act will be done by the consultant. The consultant will identify the locations where Land and Water Conservation Act Funds or any other fund affecting park and recreational lands are being used. The consultant will prepare all documentation for coordination with the appropriate agencies. The above information will be included in the ArcGIS Project Standing Structures The consultant will identify structures within 100 feet of the rail corridor on the most current digital orthophotography as being residential, business/commercial, church, community center, fire station, police station, school, or other and input this information into the ArcGIS Project. 6.4 Major Utilities The consultant will enter major utility information into the ArcGIS Project along the proposed rail corridors as obtained from the major utility companies, Jefferson Parish, Plaquemines, and Louisiana One Call Existing Railroad Network The consultant will obtain existing railroad network data for the study area from the National Transportation Atlas database, the LADOTD and any source available to improve local accuracy. These data will be overlaid with the highest resolution and most current digital orthophotography available and verified and edited for recent rail line changes. The rail lines, rail yards and intermodal terminals and ownership information will be layers within the ArcGIS Project.

13 6.4.2 Census/Demographic/Economic Data The consultant will utilize 2010 Bureau of Census and the latest American Community Survey data (block group/parish) or other approved data sources deemed superior by the project team for describing study area characteristics. As a minimum the consultant will enter data on population, age, race, ethnicity, income, housing tenure, housing characteristics (value, renter/owner, vacancy, etc.) and journey to work information. Locally obtained applicable data will be reviewed to improve the study accuracy which may include blighted/adjudicated properties, new construction and renovation permits, businesses, economic tax incentive zones, and any other local layers that may prove useful to the team Political Boundaries The consultant will obtain all pertinent political boundaries for the study area including state, parish, and municipal representatives; planning districts, and neighborhood boundaries. Contact information such as name, address, telephone numbers, website address, etc. will be obtained, as applicable Additional items as determined in the public process. Task 6 Deliverables: ArcGIS Project including social, economic, environmental, cultural and physical data, with alternative layers and metadata. 7. Define Relocation Alignment Alternatives Working in coordination with the NOGC and the Project Management Committee, the consultant will determine the boundaries for feasible railroad corridor alignments between the Harvey Canal and Walker Road. Various relocation alignments will be sought that meet the goals and objectives set through scoping the project, the purpose and need statement and stakeholder involvement. The consultant will conduct three meetings with the Project Management Committee to refine assumptions and establish design and performance criteria/standards to be used in alternatives evaluation and refinement, and coordinate those assumptions with participating agencies. Examples of design criteria include: design speed, typical section, curvature, clearances, switch locations, etc. Performance criteria examples include: mobility improvements, environmental benefits, operating efficiencies, cost-effectiveness, job creation, compatibility and support of existing land use policies, etc. The consultant will develop preliminary drawings, schematics, and initial geometrics to evaluate the alternatives in sufficient detail to show track alignment, switch locations, potential yards and sidings, minimal right-of-way width, roadway and bridge crossings, and other information necessary to compare the no build and build alternatives. The consultant will estimate residential and commercial displacements, including disproportionate impacts to minority and low income populations. The consultant will design modifications to reduce or alleviate potential impacts or to provide project enhancements for the impacted areas.

14 Each alternative will be studied in sufficient detail to develop preliminary capital cost estimates. Schematic plans and profiles for the various alternatives will be developed (1 =200 or 1 =400 or larger scale, as appropriate), identifying necessary structural modifications of existing transportation facilities, permits required, utility relocation, and rights-of-way requirements. The consultant will complete the engineering to a level of detail necessary to support the evaluation of the transportation system in satisfying the stated purpose and need, accepting anticipated growth, and disclosing the effects on the social, economic, and natural environment as required under NEPA. This analysis will be developed on base maps using geo-referenced, controlled, aerial photography. Plans and profiles will be developed showing alignments, potential property acquisition, yards, and ancillary support facilities. Identify necessary highway modifications including impacts to DOTD and Parish streets. Task 7 Deliverables: -Preliminary drawings, schematics and initial geometrics for each alternative (road, rail and Highway TSM) -Summary and/or map of commercial and residential displacement, land use policies 8. Cost Estimates The consultant will prepare capital cost estimates based on per-foot construction costs for typical railroad and roadbeds and per-square-foot costs for bridge facilities. In addition, utilities relocation costs will be developed for any major utilities that have to be modified or moved on a comparable basis. Right-of-way acquisition costs will be developed for properties which need to be acquired based on local real estate values and probable requirement for relocation assistance. The consultant will use information available from public sources to estimate the number and type of properties which may be needed. The consultant will prepare construction costs estimates for each alternative under detailed development, including utility relocation costs and mitigation costs. The consultant will provide the supporting analysis for all utilities to be relocated, including water, gas, electric, telephone, and sewer. Right-of-way requirements, impacts, and costs will be developed for each detailed alternative, including displacements and access requirements. In consultation with NOGCRR, the consultant will evaluate the requirements, rights-of-way impacts, and associated costs for train control and signalizing elements. Task 8 Deliverables: Cost Estimates for capital improvements, utilities relocation, rights-of-way, and commercial and residential displacements for each alternative under detailed development 9. Alternatives Analysis and Screening Prepare a preliminary Alternatives Summary in a concise format describing the various alternatives, including the no build alternative, and making use of tables, exhibits, data sheets and text to describe and compare each option. The Summary should objectively evaluate all reasonable alternatives and include estimated project costs, qualitatively evaluate construction of rail and roadway traffic affects, and quantitatively analyze potential environmental impacts of each alternative, based on the ArcGIS Project. Briefly discuss alternatives eliminated from detailed

15 study, including the reasons for their elimination. Identify the preliminary alternatives operating benefits and indicate how well those improvements satisfy the stated Purpose and Need. Identify the types of benefits that may accrue to the railroad and to the public as a result of all proposed improvements, particularly those associated with operating over the new route(s). The Summary should also include the following: o o o o o Updated Study Area Map showing the preliminary alternatives Typical Section(s) Location and Environmental Resources maps. Display the preliminary alternatives and the identified social, economic, natural and cultural resources on the Project Base Map. Illustrate the alternatives and their relationship to the resources. Color maps are preferred because they assist in visualizing the resources and clarifying the area of potential effect. Preliminary Alternatives Impact Summary showing the comparative impacts for each of the alternatives developed Preliminary cost estimates for each alternative Task 9 Deliverables: Preliminary Alternatives Summary 10. Refine Alternatives and Identify Preferred Alternative Summarize the alternatives outreach meetings and responses based on comments received from the agencies, Native American tribes, local officials and the public. Revise the preliminary alternatives and cost estimates based on the comments received; enter the revised alternatives into the ArcGIS Project for re-evaluation of environmental impacts. Expand the Preliminary Alternatives Summary to reflect the stakeholder input. Discuss the revisions made and why, objectively evaluate the revised alignments and update the estimated project cost and quantitative analysis of potential environmental impacts based on the ArcGIS Project. Present the additional information in a concise format relying on tables, exhibits, and data summaries. Include the following additional exhibits, if applicable: - Updated Study Area Map showing the revised preliminary alternatives - Revised Typical Section(s) - Revised Location and Environmental Resources maps. Display the revised preliminary alternatives, the Preferred Alternative, and the social, economic, natural, and cultural resources identified within the Study Area on the Project base map. - Revised Preliminary Alternatives Impact Summary showing the comparative impacts for each of the revised preliminary alternatives developed - Revised cost estimates. In consultation with RPC, DOTD, FRA, and NOGC, identify a Preferred Alternative using a balanced transportation decision-making approach that takes into account the potential impacts on the human and natural resources; the public s need for safe and efficient transportation improvements; and the least environmentally damaging practicable alternative in accordance with NEPA and the Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404(b)(1) guidelines.

16 Task 10 Deliverables: Alternatives outreach meetings comments and responses; Revised and Expanded Preliminary Alternatives Summary with preferred alternative recommendations; and Concurrence on Preferred Alternative identified in the draft environmental document. Phase III Environmental Documentation The consultant will summarize all studies and analyses conducted per section 6 to assess the beneficial and adverse effects of the Project on the social, economic, natural and cultural environment in accordance with FRA Procedures for Considering Environmental Impacts (64 FR 28545, May 26, 1999). 11. Items to be addressed in Environmental Document Preparation The EA will be prepared in accordance with FRA s technical advisory and shall contain the latest environmental checklist and summary of mitigation, permits, and commitment sheet. Below is a list of the major topics to be included in the environmental report document DOTD Environmental Determination Checklist The Consultant will prepare DOTD s Environmental Determination Checklist for eligible federal aid roadways impacted by the project for inclusion in the document. Additional sheets will be added as necessary to explain or expand responses to the checklist categories Summary Section A Summary will be prepared that adequately and accurately summarizes the environmental findings and documentation, identifying major conclusions, areas of concern, and issues raised by federal agencies and the public, issues to be resolved, and comparative analysis of the alternatives Summary of Mitigation and Permits A summary of mitigation and permits shall be placed at the beginning of the document. All potential permits and their requirements to implement the project will be identified. Any mitigation measure or enhancement committed to by Jefferson Parish, Plaquemines Parish, DOTD, or the railroad will be listed in this summary Purpose and Need for Action The purpose and need statement will be refined to address the comments received as a result of agency and public coordination or through advances in the Project s development. The P & N for the proposed action shall be discussed in the environmental document. It will identify the problems that the proposed action is intended to correct, including the no-build alternative Alternatives All reasonable alternatives considered shall be discussed in the document, including alternatives introduced through the public process. If any alternative was dismissed at an early

17 stage, the reasons for dismissal shall be discussed in the document. The alternatives shall address the purpose and need of the project. These alternatives, including the no build alternative, will be described and analyzed in the document. The estimated costs associated with each alternative will be documented in the report. Summary tables will be prepared to compare impacts of the build and no-build alternatives. The Consultant will summarize operational issues pertinent to operating scenarios, operating and maintenance costs. Capital cost estimates will be prepared utilizing unit price information obtained from the railroad Impacts Analysis of each alternative, including the no-build will be made. Items to consider include, but are not limited to, traffic patterns, permits, land use, community/social, economic, historic, cultural, recreational, archaeological, noise, air, wetlands, floodplains, farmland, and endangered or threatened species and/or their habitat. Information will be based on GIS-based and field data developed as part of this effort. Previous and on-going studies obtained through secondary sources, directly in the field, or through meetings and discussions with public agencies, the public, organizations, individuals and elected officials may also be used. Some of these items may require the production of a separate report in addition to the analysis in the environmental document. Potential mitigation measures designed to reduce or alleviate environmental consequences or impacts will be discussed in the environmental document Wetlands The consultant will conduct a wetland delineation in accordance with guidelines found in the Regional Supplement to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual: Atlantic and Gulf Coast Plain Region (United States Army Corps of Engineers, Wetland Regulatory Assistance Program, 2010) for the preferred alternative. Subsequent to the wetland delineation, the consultant will prepare a wetland data report using the latest federal criteria, for submittal to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District. Prior to conducting the site visit, the consultant will review in house data including, but limited to infrared photography, National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) maps, quadrangle maps, and soil maps. Acreage of wetlands impacted and their value will be calculated and exhibits suitable for reproduction indicating the limits of wetlands in the area affected by the project and the areas to be impacted will be made. All paperwork necessary for the permit application will be prepared by the consultant for DOTD s use in obtaining the necessary permits. Photographs of each soil sample with the appropriate Munsell soil chart in the same photograph will be included in the wetland data report. Each wetland area will be located on a quadrangle sheet as well as a site plan with the station numbers depicted. Five (5) copies of the draft and final wetland data report will be produced and made available for distribution by RPC (see 6.2.1) Environmental Site Assessment If right-of-way is required for the preferred alternative, the consultant shall perform a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment on the site in accordance with the recommendations and requirements of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard practice for Environmental Site Assessments: Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Process, ASTM E and the All Appropriate Inquiry (AAI) Standard (40CFR 312) and will include a review and summary of the following:

18 (1) State and federal regulatory agency databases that house environmental information relative to discerning the presence or absence of recognized environmental conditions (2) Historical aerial photography (3) Soil and land use information (4) Oil and gas well data (5) Water well data (6) U. S. Geological Survey 7.5 minute topographic maps (7) Historical topographic maps (8) City directory information (if available, of targeted properties based upon site reconnaissance, and regulatory agency databases) (9) Sanborn Maps (if available) The Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) will also involve interviews with personnel associated with the subject property, and a field visit to the subject property to conduct a reconnaissance of the site and immediate adjoining properties with the purpose of identifying potential areas of environmental concern. The consultant will not assume the User s Responsibility as set forth in Section 6 of the ASTM Standard, and 40 CFR , of engaging the services of a title company or title professional to review recorded land title records for environmental liens and activity/use limitations recorded against or relating to the property. Five (5) copies of the draft and final Phase I assessment shall be produced and made available for distribution as directed by RPC Air Quality Assessment The consultant will perform air quality modeling for the proposed alternatives as required by current EPA general conformity regulations and guidelines. A discussion of the anticipated impact to project level and regional air quality is required. An Air Quality study for CO2 may be prepared using CAL3QHC or MOBILE 6, or latest FHWA criterion. There is no model for project-level ozone. Railroad emissions from locomotives and railroad ancillary activities are analyzed under general conformity rules in non-attainment areas. Therefore, the consultant will perform a general conformity analysis for the ozone precursor pollutants. Conduct calculations with either the MOVES or NONROADS models, as applicable. Emissions can also be calculated from proposed project fuel consumption, if available. Five (5) copies of the draft and final Air Quality Study will be produced and made available for distribution as directed by RPC Noise and Vibration Assess noise and vibration, inclusive of before and after conditions and with and without the Proposed Action, following federal guidance Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment, May, 2006, as referenced in Environmental Impact and Related Procedures, FHWA and FTA, effective April 23, The consultant will collect various data sources to predict train sound levels such as operating train speeds/locomotive power, equipment type, track configuration or condition, and source of receiver distances. Appropriate modeling tools and procedures will be used to identify noise sensitive receptors along the proposed routes. Identify locations where noise barriers would be both technically beneficial in terms of reducing impacts and feasible in that sufficient numbers of