Final Environmental Impact Report - Whittier Bridge/I-95 ...

Whittier Bridge/I-95 Improvement Project FEIR
Chapter 2.0: Response to Comments on the Environmental Assessment/Draft Environmental Impact Report
Response: The comment is noted.
DEP-33: The results of the GHG analysis indicate an increase of 38,406 kg/day in C02eq between existing conditions
and both build and the no build alternative. The report concludes that while the traffic analysis shows a reduction in
queuing and delay, the C02 emissions' differential between these scenarios is below the detection limit.
Consequently, it was not necessary for the proponent to conduct a comparative analysis among the build
alternatives. MassDOT notes that the project does not add additional capacity but creates conformity between a
section of the roadway and the existing lane configuration to its north and south, which accounts for its negligible
impact on GHG emissions and mode shifts.
Response: The comment is noted.
DEP-34: Although not quantifiable in terms of GHG tons reduced, the project will incorporate TDM measures that
support reductions in VMT including constructing a Shared-Use Path on the Whittier Bridge that will connect the
Salisbury Ghost bike trail with the Newburyport park and ride lot that is also being expanded by over 100 new parking
spaces. MassDOT also commits to maintaining its existing range of TDM measures including working with mass
transit providers to ensure that bus transit will not be disrupted during the construction period.
Response: The comment is noted. The park and ride expansion at Exit 57 in Newburyport was
completed in 2011.
2.3.2 Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program
The NHESP submitted a comment letter dated November 25, 2011.
NHESP-1: The project falls within Priority and Estimated Habitat for the Shortnose Sturgeon (Endangered), Atlantic
Sturgeon (Endangered), and Bald Eagle (Endangered). MassDOT has been in early coordination with our office
regarding the permitting of the project pursuant to the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act 321 CMR 10.00
(MESA). The project requires a direct filing with NHESP for compliance with MESA and its implementing regulations.
The Proponent must submit any NOI for this project for review in compliance with the Wetland Regulations (WPA)
and MESA. Once these filing have been submitted, the NHESP can issue a formal determination pursuant to WPA
and MESA.
Response: The Notices of Intent for the project have been submitted to the conservation
commissions in Newburyport, Amesbury and Salisbury with copies provided to the NHESP as of
December 1, 2011.
NHESP also submitted a copy of the correspondence to the three conservation commissions on the
NOI applications, dated December 21, 2011.
NHESP-2: The NHESP finds that this project, as currently proposed, will not cause adverse effects to the habitat of
state-listed rare wildlife (310 CMR10.58(4)(b) and 10.59).
Response: The comment is noted.
NHESP-3: The NHESP notes that the project may require coordination with NMFS and compliance with their
conditions to avoid impacting the Shortnose Sturgeon. If NMFS has indicated that it will not require additional
conditions for Shortnose Sturgeon, or elected not to comment, this project will not constitute a "take" of these species
(321 CMR 10.18(2)(a). If NMFS has required conditions for the Shortnose Sturgeon, then, all required conditions
must be adhered to in order to avoid a "take" of these species (321 CMR 10.18(2)(a). If project plans change, the
applicant must contact the NHESP prior to any work for further guidance.
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