ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

for

Lidl U.S. Operations, LLC

Proposed Grocery Store #1468 353 U.S. Route 46

Block 83, Lot 7 Borough of Rockaway Morris County, New Jersey

Prepared by:

NJ Certificate of Authorization No. 24GA28161700

30 Independence Boulevard Warren, New Jersey 07059

908-668-8300

September 2020 BENJ # J190590

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Table of Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ... iv

1. DESCRIPTION OF THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN ... 1

1.1 General Description ... 1

1.2 Master Planning and Zoning ... 1

1.3 Sanitary Sewage ... 2

1.4 Potable Water Supply ... 2

1.5 Stormwater Management Facilities ... 3

1.6 Utilities Plan ... 3

1.7 Solid Waste Plan ... 3

2. INVENTORY OF EXISTING NATURAL RESOURCES ... 4

2.1 Topography ... 4

2.2 Geology ... 4

2.3 Soils ... 5

2.4 Groundwater Resources ... 6

2.5 Surface Waters ... 7

2.6 Freshwater Wetlands ... 7

2.7 Vegetation & Wildlife Habitat ... 8

2.8 Air Quality ... 11

2.9 Cultural, Historical or Archeological Resources... 11

3. PROJECT IMPACTS & PROTECTIVE MEASURES ... 12

3.1 Impacts to Topography ... 12

3.2 Soil Erosion and Sediment Control ... 12

3.3 Impacts to Geology ... 13

3.4 Impacts to Surface Waters ... 13

3.5 Surface Drainage ... 14

3.6 Groundwater Impacts ... 14

3.7 Vegetation & Wildlife Habitat Impacts ... 15

3.8 Air Quality Impacts ... 15

3.9 Solid Waste Disposal ... 16

3.10 Traffic & Circulation ... 16

3.11 Impacts to Cultural, Historical or Archeological Resources ... 17

3.12 Socio-Economic Impacts ... 17

3.13 Noise Level Increases ... 17

3.14 Artificial Lighting ... 18

3.15 Aesthetics ... 18

4. LIST OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION MEASURES ... 19

5. LIST OF UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS ... 20

6. ALTERNATIVES ... 21

7. ANTICIPATED REQUIRED LICENSES, PERMITS AND APPROVALS ... 21

8. SUMMARY ... 21

9. REFERENCES ... 23

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List of Tables Table 1 - Potential Onsite Avian Species

Table 2 – Potential Onsite Mammal Species

List of Figures Figure 1 – Tax Map

Figure 2 – Aerial Map Figure 3 – Road Map

Figure 4 – USGS Site Location Map Figure 5 – Zoning Map

Figure 6 – State Planning Area Map Figure 7 – Physiographic Province Map Figure 8 – Bedrock Geology Map Figure 9 – Surficial Geology Map Figure 10 – Soils Map

Figure 11– Depth to Seasonal High Water Table Figure 12 – Hydrologic Soils Group

Figure 13 – Bedrock Aquifer Map

Figure 14 – Groundwater Recharge Map Figure 15 – Wellhead Protection Area Map Figure 16 – HUC-14 Sub-Watershed Map Figure 17 – NJDEP Stream Map

Figure 18 – FEMA Flood Map

Figure 19– NJDEP Potential Freshwater Wetlands Map Figure 20 – Land Use/Land Cover 2012

Figure 21 - NJDEP Potential Threatened/Endangered Species Map

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Appendix A. Site Location Maps

B. Historical Register

C. Professional Qualifications

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Lidl U.S. Operations, LLC is proposing to construct a 28,122 SF Lidl Grocery Store, along with parking/circulation areas, landscaping, stormwater management and utility improvements. The project site is formally identified on the Borough Tax Maps as Block 83, Lot 7 in the Borough of Rockaway, Morris County, New Jersey The Site is bound to the east and west by commercial uses and to the north by residential uses. The existing farmers market includes parking on the eastern, western and southern sides of the building

Stormwater from pavement and landscape areas will be collected by the proposed inlets on site, and roof runoff generated by the 28,122 SF Lidl store will be handled and collected by the proposed roof drain, and eventually discharge to the existing inlets located within U.S. Route 46 right-of-way similar to existing drainage conditions onsite.

The proposed stormwater system addresses the requirements regarding water quantity, water quality and groundwater recharge per NJDEP and Borough Ordinance.

The principal impacts of the proposed plan of development are those associated with the demolition of the existing land use and construction of the proposed grocery store.

Long term positive impacts to the site include a decrease in impermeable surface.

Reuse of a previously developed site minimizes impacts to vegetation and wildlife within the Borough. Temporary impacts will occur during the construction phase of the project and include soil loss, and increased noise and dust levels. All impacts will be minimized through appropriate application of mitigation procedures and best management practices. The project is located on a site zoned for commercial development and is compatible with surrounding land uses, which are dominated by commercial uses.

This Environmental Impacts Statement (EIS) has been prepared by Bohler Engineering, in accordance with Rockaway Borough’s Environmental Impact Statement, Chapter 170 Land Use Design and Performance Standards; Article III, §170-25, and is intended to support plans prepared by Bohler Engineering. The following chapters provide a project description, an inventory of existing environmental conditions on and around the site, an assessment of potential impacts associated with the proposed construction, a description of performance controls designed to mitigate adverse impacts, and a listing of required permits and approvals.

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1. DESCRIPTION OF THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN

1.1 General Description

This Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) has been prepared by Bohler Engineering on behalf of Lidl U.S. Operations, LLC to satisfy the Site Plan application requirements for the Borough of Rockaway, Morris County, New Jersey. This EIS has been prepared in accordance with the Borough of Rockaway Chapter 170 Land Use Design and Performance Standards; Article III. Environmental Impact Statement §170- 25, which requires the submission of a written environmental impact statement.

The applicant is proposing the construction of a Lidl grocery store within the Borough of Rockaway. The purpose of this assessment is to evaluate the environmental conditions of the Project site, describe the proposed Project, and provide an analysis of the potential direct and indirect environmental impacts of the proposed improvements.

Specifically, the assessment will include information and analysis pertaining to the project location, project description, environmental inventory and a discussion of potential impacts, as well measures proposed to mitigate potential impacts. Relevant exhibits and documentation is included within the Appendix of this assessment. Project elements evaluated in this assessment are depicted on the “Preliminary Major Site Plan” documents prepared by Bohler Engineering.

1.2 Master Planning and Zoning

The project site is formally identified on the Borough Tax Maps as Block 83, Lot 7 in the Borough of Rockaway, Morris County, New Jersey (Figure 1). The Site is located adjacent to and north of U.S. Route 46 and consists of approximately 3.559 acres of land. Under existing conditions, the Site is entirely developed with a single-story Rockaway Farmers Market.

The Site is bound to the east and west by commercial uses and to the north by residential uses. The existing farmers market includes parking on the eastern, western and southern sides of the building. Please refer to the Site Location Maps (Figures 2, 3 and 4) in Appendix A for more information.

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Pursuant to the Rockaway Borough Zoning Map (Figure 5), the site is located within the Highway Commercial (H-C) zone. According to the Rockaway Borough’s Land Use and Development Ordinance, the H-C zone, which includes all permitted uses in the G-B Business District, including stores and shops for retail business.

The proposed Project is also in conformity with the general goals of the New Jersey State Plan. According to the State Plan Policy Map (Figure 6), the Site is located within Metropolitan Planning Area (PA-1). The planning goals for the Metropolitan Planning Area are to promote growth in compact forms to stabilize older suburbs, protect the character of existing communities and protect natural resources (New Jersey State Planning Commission, 2001). These goals are accomplished by providing public facilities, consumer services and community activities for surrounding residential uses in core areas to take advantage of public transportation services. Medium to high density development is encouraged in these areas to utilize existing infrastructure, while attempting to prevent urban/suburban sprawl into surrounding lesser developed areas.

The proposed medical office development is consistent with these State Plan goals and objectives for the Metropolitan Planning Area.

1.3 Sanitary Sewage

The Site is located within the existing sanitary sewer service area of the Borough of Rockaway and the Rockaway Valley Regional Sewerage Authority. Sanitary sewage service for the proposed development will be provided through connection to existing facilities located along the U.S. Route 46 frontage. It is estimated that the proposed development will generate ± 2,812 gallons per day (GPD) of wastewater as per N.J.A.C.

7:14A, utilizing a flow rate estimate of 0.10 GPD/SF.

1.4 Potable Water Supply

Potable water will be supplied to the Site by Rockaway Borough via connection to an existing water main located along the U.S. Route 46 frontage. Estimated water demand for the proposed Project is ± 3,515 gallons per day (GPD), which will be utilized for typical domestic uses such as restrooms, and cleaning. No potable wells are proposed for the Project; therefore, there will be no additional demands or withdrawals on groundwater at the Site.

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1.5 Stormwater Management Facilities

Stormwater management measures include collection of stormwater runoff from the roof, pavement and landscaped areas through a stormwater conveyance system that will collect run-off and route flows underground to tie into a catch basin in the U.S.

Route 46 right-of-way. Stormwater basins are not proposed with the project due to the decrease in impervious cover over the site.

1.6 Utilities Plan

Utilities to be provided to the proposed project include, electricity, cable and telephone. All utilities will be located underground.

1.7 Solid Waste Plan

All construction debris generated on-site and any existing on-site debris will be transported by a licensed waste hauler, in accordance with the requirements of the Morris County Public Works.

Trash enclosures are proposed off the northern corner of the proposed building.

Solid waste generated by the proposed development will be collected by a private hauler and transported to an approved landfill for disposal. The Borough of Rockaway, in conjunction with Morris County, has developed a recycling program that requires the recycling of glass, aluminum, metal cans, plastic bottles, corrugated cardboard, magazines and newspapers. Recyclable waste is collected by the Borough for transport to its recycling facility.

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2. INVENTORY OF EXISTING NATURAL RESOURCES

The following section is an inventory of the present land use and environmental conditions at the site including features such as topography, geology, soils, water resources, vegetation, wildlife, threatened and endangered species, and historical/cultural resources. This inventory will establish a baseline to which the proposed Project can be analyzed and compared to ascertain potential environmental impacts.

2.1 Topography

The site is characterized by relatively flat topography over the majority of the site with steeper slopes in the northern portion of the site near the unnamed tributary of the Rockaway River. The site generally slopes in a north to south direction from a high point of approximately 593 feet above mean sea level (m.s.l.) in the northwestern corner of the site. The low point of the site is located in the southern corner of the site at approximately 561 feet above m.s.l.

Pursuant to the Borough Ordinance, steep slopes are those defined as land areas with slopes exceeding 15%. According to the NRCS mapping for the site, areas of steep slopes do not exist onsite. However, the ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey, prepared by Control Point Associates, Inc. dated March 23, 2020, last updated August 7, 2020 show slopes along the northeastern property boundary, northern corner and northwestern corner of the property that exceed 15%. Demolition and construction on the site is proposed within previously developed areas and will avoid disturbance to steep slopes on the site. Please refer to the boundary and topographic survey for more detailed information.

2.2 Geology

New Jersey is divided into four regions, known as physiographic provinces, which are areas with similar rock types, geologic structures and a common geologic history. The Project site is situated within the Highlands Physiographic Province of New Jersey (Figure 7). The Highlands Physiographic Province consists of approximately 980 square miles occupying all or parts of Sussex, Warren, Hunterdon, Morris, Somerset, Bergen and Passaic. The province extends from the New York and Pennsylvania to the Piedmont in northern and central New Jersey. Landforms generally consist of

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mountainous areas with discontinuous ridges and valleys. Underlying formations predominantly include igneous and sedimentary rocks dating to the Middle Proterozoic Age (1.2 billion – 900 million years old).

Bedrock is the solid rock beneath the soil and surficial rock. According to NJ GeoWeb Mapping, the site is underlain by Diorite (Yd), which is characterized by gray- to tan-weathering, greenish-gray to brownish-gray, medium- to coarse-grained, greasy lustered, massive diorite containing andesine or oligoclase, clinopyroxene, hornblende, hypersthene and sparse amounts of biotite and magnetite (Figure 8). Depth to bedrock is greater than 10 feet. Major rock outcroppings are not present onsite.

Surficial geology refers to the unconsolidated sediments that overlie bedrock formations. These unconsolidated sediments are classified onsite as Late Wisconsinan Terminal Moraine - Netcong Till, which consists of sandy till and some silty till with pebbles, cobbles and boulders of gneiss, quartzite, carbonate rock and sandstone;

Netcong Till, which consists of silty sand to sandy silt with some to many pebbles and cobbles and some to many boulders and Gneiss Colluvium, which consists of silty sand to sandy silt with gneiss fragments (Figure 9). These units can be as much as 30 to 150 feet thick over bedrock. Whitestone Associates, Inc. (WAI), prepared a “Report of Geotechnical Investigation” (3/9/2020), bedrock was not encountered in test pits down to 20 ft below ground surface.

2.3 Soils

Soils are formed through the interaction of a variety of physical, chemical, and biological factors that include climate, parent material, topography, biological activities, and time. The degree to which any or all of these factors affect the local soil characteristics is quite variable, generally leading to the formation of a mosaic of soil types in any particular locality. The United States Department of Agriculture has, through the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), mapped soils in detail for New Jersey.

According to the Natural Resource Conservation Service’s Web Soil Survey (Figure 10), the onsite soils include Rockaway (RocB) soil series and Urban land (UR):

Rockaway soils, (RocB) are located in the undisturbed northwestern corner of the site. This soil type is a gravelly sandy loam and consists of well drained upland soils

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fragipan, moderately low to very in the fragipan and moderately high or high below the fragipan. Available water capacity is very low. According to the NRCS, seasonal high water occurs at a depth of 2 to 3 feet (Figure 11).

Urban land soils consist mostly of areas that are either paved or built upon. The soils have been reworked to the extent that the original profile cannot be recognized.

Because of the soils variable characteristics, the soil is not assigned ratings for permeability, available water capacity or drainage class.

Rockaway soils have been classified by NRCS as Group “A/D” soils. The first letter in a dual “A/D” classification refers to the soil in its drained conditions and the second letter refers to the soils undrained condition. Group “A” soils have high infiltration rates, whereas Group “D” soils have very slow infiltration (Figure 12).

2.4 Groundwater Resources

Ground water is all water within the soil and subsurface strata that is not at the surface of the land. It includes water that is within the earth that supplies wells and springs. Ground water resources are often functionally linked to overlying land area and surface water bodies; ground water is often recharged through “outcrop” area at the land surface and ground water discharges (“seeps”) may contribute to base flows of streams and rivers.

The ground water yields of any geological formation are a function of the porosity and permeability of the material comprising the formation (consolidated rock or unconsolidated deposits). Porosity describes the water-containing spaces between individual mineral grains, while permeability is the ease or difficulty with which water is transmitted through interconnecting spaces in the formation. Formations lacking open spaces between the mineral grains have both low porosity and low permeability.

Weathering and cracking of the parent bedrock can induce secondary porosity in the formation; water can accumulate and move through these features in the primary rock formation.

The site is underlain by Diorite. Ground water is stored and transmitted in fractures of the igneous and metamorphic rock underlying the site (Figure 13). Water within this geologic unit is generally of good quality, but locally may require chemical treatment. (N.J.G.S., 1998).

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The NJ-GeoWeb map ranks the proposed construction area for aquifer recharge potential as 0 in/yr (Figure 14).

Seven sole-source aquifers are defined in New Jersey, which are those aquifers that contribute more than 50% of the drinking water to a specific area. The site is underlain by the Rockaway sole source aquifer area. This aquifer covers a 116 square mile area in Essex, Morris, and Essex counties and includes the Rockaway River Watershed.

According to the NJ GeoWeb GIS mapping (Figure 15), the Site is located within a Tier-2 Wellhead Protection Area.

2.5 Surface Waters

The site is located within the Upper Passaic, Whippany and Rockaway Watershed Management Area, within the Rockaway River Watershed, and more specifically within the Rockaway River (BM 534 bridge to 74d33m30s) HUC-14 Sub- Watershed (Figure 16). The site includes an unnamed tributary to the Rockaway River and flows along the northwestern property boundary (Figure 17). The Rockaway River tributary has been assigned a Surface Water Quality Classification of Freshwater Non- Trout Category One (FW2-NTC1). Pursuant to the Flood Hazard Area Control Act Rules at N.J.A.C 7:13, a 300-foot riparian buffer from the top of bank is associated with Rockaway River tributary.

Under existing conditions, the drainage pattern for the site generally follows existing topography. The site generally drains from north to south towards southern corner of the site near U.S. Route 46.

According to the National Flood Insurance Program’s Flood Insurance Rate Map FEMA Panel # 34027C0144F, no part of the Site is located within a flood hazard area and will not experience flooding (Figure 18).

2.6 Freshwater Wetlands

The NJDEP GeoWeb Mapping of the Site did not indicate any wetland habitats onsite or within 150-ft of the site (Figure 19).

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2.7 Vegetation & Wildlife Habitat

Vegetation is the plant life or total plant cover that is found in a specific area, whether indigenous or introduced by humans. The Highlands Physiographic Province of New Jersey contains a diverse mixture of major terrestrial plant habitats, including freshwater marshes, bogs, swamps and floodplains, upland valleys and slopes, upland ridges and rock outcrops (Robichaud and Buell, 1973). This habitat diversity results in a mosaic of plant communities occurring in small areas.

One plant community was identified on the site, deciduous upland forest. This community is found in the northwestern portion of the site along the property boundary adjacent to the Rockaway River tributary. Canopy vegetation includes white oak, red maple, Norway maple, black walnut, eastern white pine, American beech, and black cherry. The woody understory includes greenbriar, poison ivy, immatures of the above species. Ground cover includes mustards, partridgeberry, striped wintergreen and grasses.

The NJDEP has mapped general vegetation communities and land uses through the state using 2012 aerial photographs. According to the NJ-GeoWeb Mapping, the vegetation community mapped for the site included deciduous forest. Urban land use was also mapped in the area of the existing commercial use and associated parking lot/asphalt pavement (Figure 20).

The utility of an area as wildlife habitat depends on many factors. All wildlife species require food, water, cover and space. The relative abundance or lack of these resources in relation to each species’ particular requirements will, in part, determine the species composition and distribution of a particular area. In addition, the types of vegetative communities present, the size, shape and complexity of the habitat(s), and the surrounding land uses will further interact to determine the success of various wildlife species at the location being considered. Some wildlife species have demonstrated great adaptability and tolerance to human presence/disturbance; others are less able to tolerate such activities and are displaced to more suitable habitats, if such are available and accessible.

The NJDEP Landscape Project (Version 3.3) is a wildlife habitat mapping program that is used to identify and map critical wildlife habitats for endangered, threatened and special concern species. The Landscape Project provides mapping for five distinctive land cover types: forest, emergent wetlands, forested wetlands,

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grasslands and beach/dune. The maps are based on land use classification and rare species locations. Each mapped area appears as a shaded color from light to dark (5 rankings) indicating its relative priority ranking. Rank 1 is the lowest priority ranking, while Rank 5 is the highest priority ranking. Rank 1 meets the minimum area requirements, but no data exists for the presence of priority species (NJDEP, Division of Fish and Wildlife, Endangered & Nongame Species Program, 2012). This is the NJDEP’s lowest priority ranking and is defined as areas meeting the minimum size requirements but with no documented sightings of threatened or endangered species.

Rank 2 contains records of federally threatened or endangered species.

Developed portions of the site were assigned a Rank 1 and forested portions assigned a Rank 5 (Figure 21). The Federally protected species include Federally threatened northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrioanlis) and bog turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii), and Federally endangered Indiana Bat (Myotis sodalis), both bats utilize forested areas within Morris County for foraging and nesting.

Northern long-eared and Indiana bats hibernate in limestone caves and open, abandoned mine shafts (hibernaculum) from October to April. During summer months, roosting sites include loose bark of dead or dying trees and also loose bark associated with specific tree species including, American elm (Ulmus americana), slippery elm (Ulmus rubra), bitternut hickory (Carya cordiformis), shagbark hickory (Carya ovata), sweet pignut hickory (Carya ovalis), northern red oak (Quercus rubra), post oak (Quercus stellata), white oak (Quercus alba), silver maple (Acer saccharinum), sugar maple (Acer saccharum), cottonwood (Populus deltoides), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) and sassafras (Sassafras albidum) (NJDEP, 2017). The habitat described above was not observed on the Site, therefore it is not anticipated to support Northern long-eared or Indiana bats. Therefore, impacts to either species is not anticipated with the construction of the proposed project.

Bog Turtles prefer to inhabit calcareous (limestone) fens, sphagnum bogs, and wet, grassy pastures that are characterized by soft, muddy substrates (bottoms) and perennial groundwater seepage. This habitat was not observed at the Site. Therefore, impacts to Bog Turtle are not anticipated at the site.

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Avian species may utilize the forested portions of the Site for habitat and may include:

Table 1

Potential Onsite Avian Species

Scientific Name Common name

Cardinalis cardinalis Northern cardinal

Carpodacus mexicanus house finch

Cathartes aura turkey vulture

Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow

Cyanocitta cristata blue jay

Dumetella carolinensis gray catbird

Mimus polyglottos mocking bird

Parus atricapillus black capped chickadee

Parus bicolor tufted titmouse

Passer domesticus house sparrow

Poecile carolinensis Carolina chickadee

Quiscalus quiscula common grackle

Spizella pusilla field sparrow

Sturnus vulgaris European starling

Toxostoma rufum brown thrasher

Troglodytes aedon house wren

Turdus migratorius American robin

Zenaida macroura mourning dove

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Small mammals may utilize the Site for habitat and may include:

Table 2

Potential Onsite Mammal Species

Scientific Name Common name

Blarina brevicauda shorttail shrew

Marmota monax ground hog

Mephitis mephitis striped skunk

Peromyscus leucopus white footed mouse Peromyscus maniculatus deer mouse

Procyon lotor raccoon

Scalopus aquaticus Eastern mole

Sciurus carolinensis gray squirrel Sylvilagus floridanus Eastern cottontail

Tamias striatus Eastern chipmunk

2.8 Air Quality

Ambient air quality in the vicinity is tracked by the NJDEP. The nearest monitoring stations to the site include Chester and Paterson, which both monitor Ozone on a regular basis. Particulates are monitored at the Chester station. At the time of the preparation of this report, the NJDEP was reporting “good” air quality for the region with low levels of pollutants such as ozone (O3) and particulates. According to the most recent Air Quality Index Summary (2018), New Jersey averages “good” air quality 145 days a year, “moderate” air quality 198 days a year, and “unhealthy for sensitive groups” 22 days a year.

2.9 Cultural, Historical or Archeological Resources

According to the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places (NJDEP, last updated July 15, 2020) (Appendix C), the Morris Canal Historic District crosses the property along the northern portions of the site.

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3. PROJECT IMPACTS & PROTECTIVE MEASURES

As with any development activity, the proposed Project will have some impact on the natural environment in some fashion. Below is a discussion of the potential Project impacts on the site, surrounding area, and environment that may occur as a result of the proposed site improvements. A discussion of potential mitigation measures and best management practices (BMPs) that may be employed before, during, and after construction to minimize potential impacts of the proposed Project has also been included. These measures will serve to reduce and/or eliminate potential adverse impacts to the site, surrounding area, and environment so that the overall environmental impact of the Project may be reduced.

3.1 Impacts to Topography

As depicted on the “Grading Plan”, impacts to topography for the proposed project will include demolition of the site, minimal re-grading for the project. Under proposed conditions, the topography of the Site will continue to slow in a north to south direction with the high point in the northwestern corner and low point in the southern corner of the site. The proposed high point will remain at approximately 593 feet m.s.l.

near the northwestern corner of the Site. The low point of the Site will be at approximately 33 feet m.s.l. near the southern corner.

3.2 Soil Erosion and Sediment Control

Soil erosion and sedimentation can occur both during the construction and operational phases of the Project. During the construction phase, stormwater runoff and wind may result in the movement of soils and sediments from unstabilized materials.

This impact is proposed to be controlled during construction through the implementation of an approved Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Plan by the Morris County Soil Conservation District, as well as by careful adherence to the sequence of construction described on the Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Plan.

As depicted on the “Soil Erosion & Sediment Control Plan”, the following structural and non-structural soil erosion Best Management Practices (BMPs) will be implemented during construction: placement of silt fencing and/or silt fencing around the limit of disturbance, temporary soil stockpiles surrounded with silt fencing, temporary vegetative cover standards, inlet filter covers over all existing and proposed stormwater inlets, and anti-tracking stabilized construction access driveway entrance off the U.S.

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Route 46. Soil management factors that prevent erosion hazards and minimize the creation of airborne particulate and dust will be monitored by the onsite inspector for the proposed construction. Following completion of construction, soil erosion and sediment control will be able to continue to be controlled through measures such as the implementation and maintenance of the stormwater management system, inlet filter grates, permanent vegetative cover, stabilized stormwater outfall structures, regular property maintenance, and curbing.

3.3 Impacts to Geology

Excavations will be required for the placement of the underground utilities, underground stormwater management basin, and the building foundation. Excavations required are anticipated to be 4 to 8 feet below ground surface. According to the NRCS Soil Survey for the Site, excavation for underground utilities, stormwater facilities and the building foundation will occur into the overlying glacial deposits, which consist of gravelly sandy loam.

Adverse impacts to the geology of the site and surrounding area are not expected to occur as a result of the proposed project

3.4 Impacts to Surface Waters

The Rockaway River tributary is upslope of construction activities and will not be disturbed with this project. No vegetated areas within the 300-ft riparian zone will be disturbed with this project. Existing pavement within the riparian zone will be redeveloped as part of the project. All areas within 25-ft of the top-of-bank for the riparian zone will be restored or remain undisturbed as required under the Flood Hazard Area Control Act Rules at N.J.A.C. 7:13.

Potential short-term impacts to surface water quality are generally associated with soil loss, erosion, and sedimentation during construction activities. As previously stated, all disturbance is downslope of the tributary. Any adverse impacts will be minimized by the installation and maintenance of proven soil erosion and sediment control measures presented in the plans. These measures will retain disturbed soil sediment within the areas of construction and will mitigate the potential for sediment being transported to the existing storm sewer system and/or offsite streams.

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The proposed improvements include the construction of the building, parking, landscaping, and stormwater conveyance system with associated utility improvements.

The proposed grocery store will not be manufacturing any products or be associated with any industrial operations. Therefore, potential sources for surface water quality degradation is anticipated to be resultant of non-point sources such as proposed access drives and parking areas. Mitigation to reduce non-point pollutants includes reduction of on-site impervious cover.

The proposed Project is not anticipated to result in any significant adverse impacts to surface waters or water quality.

3.5 Surface Drainage

In New Jersey, projects resulting in over 1 acre of land disturbance or 0.25 acres of new impervious surfaces are required to comply with the NJDEP’s Stormwater Management Rules at N.J.A.C. 7:8. As required by the regulations, municipal entities are responsible to ensure projects meet the required or applicable standards for stormwater runoff including quantity control, quality control, and groundwater recharge.

Land disturbance exceeds 1 acre and new impervious surfaces exceeds 0.25 acres;

therefore, stormwater quantity control, and quality control are required.

Proposed site improvements include the reduction of impervious area over the site, thereby meeting NJDEP stormwater management standards with regard to water quality, peak runoff rate reduction and groundwater recharge requirements.

3.6 Groundwater Impacts

Primary sources for groundwater pollution include infiltration of contaminated stormwater, malfunctioning septic systems, underground storage tank leakage, and uncontrolled discharges of industrial manufacturing wastes. The proposed use will not include any manufacturing or industrial operations. The proposed stormwater management design will include methods to safely collect and treat stormwater runoff from high pollutant loading areas such as the parking and access drives areas of the site. Runoff from this high pollutant loading area will not be permitted to recharge directly to groundwater. The onsite storm pipes will be watertight to prevent recharge of onsite runoff.

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Potable water for the proposed project shall be supplied by the Rockaway Borough via a connection to an existing water main located within U.S. Route 46. Total estimated demand for the proposed grocery store shall be approximately ± 3,515-GPD.

Potable water will be used primarily for restrooms and domestic cleaning.

The proposed grocery store is not considered a major or minor potential pollutant source (PPS) with regard to wellhead protection areas. Therefore, the proposed project is not anticipated to have an adverse impact to the wellhead protection area in the vicinity of the Site.

3.7 Vegetation & Wildlife Habitat Impacts

Construction for the proposed development will not require additional vegetation removal from the site. Construction activities are within the limits of the existing development.

As indicated within the plan set, a landscaping plan will be implemented to enhance the aesthetic features of the development. The plan provides for the installation of an aesthetically pleasing arrangement of trees, shrubs, and ground cover around the parking areas and along the driveways.

During construction, potential mammalian and avian species utilizing the site for habitat will likely be displaced into undisturbed and adjacent areas. Upon completion of construction, these species may return to forested and landscaped portions of the site.

No adverse impacts to any threatened or endangered species or their respective habitat is anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed site improvements.

Overall, adverse impacts to vegetation, wildlife or wildlife habitat will not occur as a result of the proposed site improvements.

3.8 Air Quality Impacts

Currently, air quality at the site is anticipated to be primarily impacted by vehicular traffic along U.S. Route 46.

During construction, all possible measures to reduce air pollution from construction equipment emissions and control of dust will be taken. During operation,

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the grocery store is anticipated to result in negligible increases in emissions resultant of vehicular traffic associated with patrons and deliveries. The proposed use will not be manufacturing any products; therefore, no direct emission sources are associated with the project. The proposed grocery store is not anticipated to draw significant additional traffic or visitors to the area as most will be local residents shopping at the store.

Unpleasant odors can also be considered an adverse impact to air quality. No manufacturing will be conducted onsite; therefore, far-reaching unpleasant odors and/or harmful emissions will not be released from the site.

Overall, the proposed grocery store is not anticipated to result in any significant impacts to air quality.

3.9 Solid Waste Disposal

During construction, construction wastes and materials will be collected, transported, and disposed of offsite by a private contractor. All wastes will be exported offsite to appropriate collection facilities based on the type and quantity of materials.

Burning or dumping of onsite debris will not be permitted.

Upon completion of construction, operational wastes will be collected from the facility and placed within the proposed trash enclosure at the rear of the building. Solid wastes from the grocery store will include paper, cardboard, packaging materials, glass, plastics, and food wastes. Trash collection will be handled by a private hauler for proper disposal and/or recycling. Solid waste disposal will be performed in accordance with all applicable local, county, and State standards and regulations.

3.10 Traffic & Circulation

The proposed Lidl grocery store is not anticipated to significantly increase volumes of traffic to the surrounding area. Patrons are anticipated to be local residents, employees from surrounding businesses, and passersby traffic associated with U.S.

Route 46. An NJDOT Major Access Application will likely be required for the site.

Continued coordination with the NJDOT to submit required data for NJDOT to issue the final Access Permit determination is on-going.

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3.11 Impacts to Cultural, Historical or Archeological Resources

As discussed in Section 2.9 above, the site may contain the Morris Canal Historic District. The Morris Canal was abandoned in 1924 and site development at the site can be dated to the late 1950’s with the construction of the current building. Further destruction or degradation of cultural historic features are not anticipated to occur as a result of the proposed site improvements.

Should any archeological resources or remains be encountered during construction, all construction activities will immediately cease, the proper authorities will be notified, and the matter will be handled in accordance will all applicable laws, regulations, and standard operating procedures.

3.12 Socio-Economic Impacts

Population increase will not occur as a result of the proposed facility as it will not be providing additional residences. There is no projected need for any increase in municipal services such as schools, police, or fire. In compliance with local zoning and the Master Plan, the proposed Project is consistent with surrounding land uses and will not result in undesirable land use patterns.

In summary, the community is anticipated to benefit from the resultant tax revenue increase and new job availability. The proposed Project is anticipated to provide economic sustenance for community and regional growth.

3.13 Noise Level Increases

The State of New Jersey regulates noise under the New Jersey Noise Control Act, N.J.A.C. 7:29. This Act contains both protocols for assessing noise impacts as well as the allowable noise levels. Allowable noise levels differ for residential properties and industrial/commercial zoned areas. The regulations are as follows:

Residential:

7:00 AM – 10:00 PM 65 DBA at the nearest property line 10:00 PM – 7:00 AM 50 DBA at the nearest property line

Industrial/Commercial: 65 DBA at the nearest property lines at all times.

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During the construction phase, the noise levels will be slightly elevated as a result of construction activities, such as the operation of construction equipment. No blasting will occur. These disturbances will be limited to the Site construction time period and normal working hours.

After completion of the Project, the noise level will be reduced to normal commercial levels. Noise generating operations that will occur onsite include vehicular traffic, pedestrian activities, mechanical equipment (air conditioners, etc.), and delivery activities. Noise levels are anticipated to be a levels far below than those allowed by State regulations. The noise levels of the proposed facility are anticipated to have a negligible impact on the Site and the surrounding vicinity, given the nature of the proposed use and its location on U.S. Route 46, a major state highway already impacted by heavy vehicular traffic. Landscape buffers are proposed to mitigate potential noise impacts to adjacent properties.

3.14 Artificial Lighting

Decorative and/or safety lighting is proposed through the Project Site. The lighting plan will be designed in accordance with all applicable Rockaway Borough regulations.

Under proposed conditions, artificial lighting levels will not exceed the minimum necessary for safety in and around the facility. Minimal lighting is proposed to meet the lighting standards, minimizing spill over to adjacent properties. Adjacent properties are not anticipated to be adversely impacted as a result of the proposed Site improvements.

3.15 Aesthetics

Development of the Site is not anticipated to have any adverse impacts on aesthetics. Landscaping and vegetation are proposed to serve as screening and buffer areas, architecturally pleasing and complimentary building facades will be incorporated as feasible.

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4. LIST OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION MEASURES

The following is a listing of environmental protection and mitigation measures within the site design to be employed during site construction and operation.

 Placement of silt fencing around the limit of disturbance

 Temporary soil stockpile with silt fencing

 Erosion blankets for slopes 3:1 or greater

 Existing & proposed inlet filter covers

 Stabilized anti-tracking construction entrance

 Parking areas have been proposed with minimal slope to decrease the velocity of overland flows

 Proposed landscaping

 Low maintenance landscaping and native species shall be planted as feasible

 Lawn areas and potential use of fertilizers and pesticides has been minimized.

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5. LIST OF UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS

Criteria Short Term Impacts Long Term Impacts Reversible Impacts Irreversible Impacts

Topography Grading Grading

Minor alteration of

topography, general patterns respected

None

Geology Excavations for underground

utilities None anticipated Excavations for underground

utilities. None anticipated

Soils Land clearing, potential soil

erosion Grading, fill Potential soil erosion –

mitigation proposed None Groundwater None anticipated Potential impacts from nature

of use – mitigation proposed.

Potential impacts from nature

of use – mitigation proposed. None anticipated Surface Water

Potential soil erosion impact during construction - mitigation proposed

Potential impacts from nature of use – mitigation proposed.

Potential soil erosion impact during construction -

mitigation proposed.

None anticipated

Wetlands None None None None

Vegetation &

Wildlife Habitat

Minor disturbance to avian &

small mammal habitat during construction.

Negligible None None

Air Quality

Minor related to dust generation & increased

emissions during construction

Negligible

Construction related impacts will dissipate post

construction, increased vehicular use at site

None anticipated

Noise Increased noise levels during

construction Negligible Increased noise levels during

construction None anticipated

Historic

Resources None anticipated None anticipated None anticipated None anticipated

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6. ALTERNATIVES

The proposed project is similar in nature to adjacent uses and is located along a major traffic corridor. Overall, the proposed project is complementary to the surrounding uses and roadways. Also, as discussed in the Sections above, various BMPs and protective measures are incorporated into the design of the site to reduce or eliminate potential environmental impacts.

7. ANTICIPATED REQUIRED LICENSES, PERMITS AND APPROVALS

Agency Permit/Approval Status

Rockaway Borough

Planning Board Preliminary and Final Major Site Plan Approval

Subject of this application Rockaway Borough Building Permit Review To be submitted.

Rockaway Borough Water Allocation To be submitted Rockaway Borough

and Parsippany-Troy Hills Municipal

Utilities Authority

Sewer Connection Permit To be submitted To be submitted

Morris County

Planning Board Development Review Approval To be submitted Morris County Soil

Conservation District Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Plan

To be submitted

8. SUMMARY

In conclusion, as discussed and detailed above, the proposed Lidl grocery store is anticipated to have minimal impact on environmental resources. The site improvements have been designed to be compatible with surrounding uses and is redeveloping a previously disturbed site to minimize impacts to natural and biological resources. Implementation of the proposed improvements is anticipated to result in minimal short-term and long-term adverse environmental impacts relative to the existing development state and the surrounding land uses. Minor impacts will be minimized and mitigated through proper engineering, planning and design, proper construction management techniques, as well as implementation of the various mitigation measures and BMP’s discussed within this assessment. It is not anticipated that any significant unmitigated impacts to the environment or the

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residents of the Borough of Rockaway will occur as a result of this Project. The Project will be designed to comply with local, county, and State development standards and planning objectives and will not pose significant impacts to the natural environment or local community.

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9. REFERENCES

Bohler Engineering. Preliminary Major Site Plan Documents. Dated 8/21/2020.

Borough of Rockaway Ordinance. Accessed at www.ecode360.com.

Drake, Avery A. et al. 1996. Bedrock Geologic Map of New Jersey.

Federal Emergency Management Agency. Flood Insurance Rate Map, Community Panel #34027C0144F. Effective date: 2/26/2016.

Natural Resources Conservation Service, Web Soil Survey. Last updated 9/28/2016.

http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/

New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife. 2016. New Jersey Landscape Project, Version 3.3. New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Fish and Wildlife, Endangered and Nongame Species Program.

NJDEP. Air Monitory Web Site. 2018. Air Quality Index Summary.

http://www.njaqinow.net/

NJDEP, Historic Preservation Office. New Jersey and National Register of Historic Places. Last updated 7/15/2020.

New Jersey Geological Survey (NJGS). 2008. NJGS Digital Geodata Series – Aquifers of New Jersey. Available for download at:

http://www.state.nj.us/dep/njgs/geodata/dgs98-5.htm

NJGS. Informational Circular: Physiographic Provinces of New Jersey. 2003.

NJGS. Open File Report: Guidelines for Delineation of Well Head Protection Areas in New Jersey. 2003.

NJGS. 2009. NJGS Digital Geodata Series – Bedrock Geology of New Jersey.

Available for download at: http://www.state.nj.us/dep/njgs/geodata/dgs04- 6.htm.

NJGS. 2009. NJGS Digital Geodata Series – Ground-Water Recharge for New Jersey. Available for download at:

http://www.state.nj.us/dep/njgs/geodata/dgs02-3.htm

NJGS. 2009. NJGS Digital Geodata Series – Physiographic Provinces of New Jersey. Available for download at:

http://www.state.nj.us/dep/njgs/geodata/dgs02-7.htm.

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Robichaud, B., and M.F. Buell. 1973. Vegetation of New Jersey: A Study of

Landscape Diversity. Rutgers University Press, New Brunswick, New Jersey.

United States Geologic Survey. 2019. 7.5 Minute Quadrangle Maps. United States Geologic Survey, Dover Quadrangle New Jersey

Whitestone Associates, Inc. Phase I Environmental Site Assessment. 3/20/2020.

Whitestone Associates, Inc. Report of Geotechnical Investigation. 3/9/2020.

\\BOHLERENG.NET\SHARES\NJ-PROJECTS\2019\J190590\ADMIN\REPORTS\EIS\EIS (ROCKAWAY BORO).DOC

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APPENDIX A SITE LOCATION MAPS

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Figure 1 Tax Map

Source: Rockaway Borough Tax Map, Sheet #18 Date Access: 08/18/2020

353 U.S. Route 46 Block 7; Lot 83

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Borough of Rockaway, Morris County, NJ BENJ #190590

Site

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Figure 2 Aerial Map

Source: NJ GeoWeb Date Access: 08/18/2020

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Borough of Rockaway, Morris County, NJ Site

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Figure 3 Roads Map

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Site

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Source: USGS, 2019 Date Access: 08/18/2020

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Borough of Rockaway, Morris County, NJ

Dover Quadrangle USGS Map

Figure 4

Site

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Figure 5 Zoning Map

Source: Rockaway Borough Zone Map Date Access: 08/18/2020

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Site

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Figure 6

State Planning Area Map

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

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Figure 7

Physiographic Province

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Site

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Figure 8

Bedrock Geology Map

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

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Figure 9

Surficial Geology Map

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Site

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Figure 10 Soils Map

Source: NRCS Web Soil Survey, 2012 Date Access: 08/18/2020

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

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Figure 11

Depth to Seasonal High Water Table

353 U.S. Rou.S. Route 46 Block 7; Lot 83

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

*centimeters

Site

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Figure 12

Hydrologic Soils Group

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

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Figure 13

Bedrock Aquifer Map

Source: NJ-GeoWeb, 2015

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

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Figure 14

Groundwater Recharge Map

353 U.S. Route 46

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

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Figure 15

Wellhead Protection Area Map

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Site

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Figure 16

HUC-14 Sub-Watershed Map

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

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Figure 17

NJDEP Stream Map

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Site

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Figure 18

FEMA Flood Map

Source:FEMA FIRM Map #XXXX, Date XXX Date Access: 08/18/2020

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

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Figure 19

NJDEP Potential Freshwater Wetlands Map

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Site

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Figure 20

Land Use/Land Cover 2012

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

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Figure 21

NJDEP Potential

Threatened/Endangered Species Habitat

LIDL U.S. OPERATIONS, LLC

Site

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APPENDIX B HISTORICAL REGISTER

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NJ DEP - Historic Preservation Office

New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places Page 20 of 24 Last Update: 7/15/2020 MORRIS County

1555 Sussex Turnpike SHPO Opinion: 12/12/1991 (Demolished)

Coe House (ID#2228)

Combs Avenue and Combs Hollow Road south of Doby Road SR: 12/11/1995

NR: 2/16/1996 (NR Reference #: 96000042) Combs Hollow Historic District (ID#3396)

Also located in:

MORRIS County, Mendham Township

Intersection of Quaker Avenue and Quaker Church Road SR: 1/29/1973

NR: 6/4/1973 (NR Reference #: 73001121) Friends Meetinghouse (ID#2229)

1502 Sussex Turnpike SHPO Opinion: 12/12/1991 Griffin Property (ID#2230)

Gristmill Road and Millbrook Avenue near Millbrook SR: 7/22/1992

NR: 8/31/1992 (NR Reference #: 92001085) Mott Hollow Historic District (ID#2231)

Sussex Turnpike at Church Road SR: 8/16/1991

NR: 10/11/1991 (NR Reference #: 91001484) Mount Freedom Presbyterian Church (ID#2232)

Morris and Essex Railroad right-of-way (NJ Transit Morristown Line) from Hudson, Hoboken City to Warren, Washington Township, and then along Warren Railroad to the Delaware River

SHPO Opinion: 6/7/2004

(Boundaries expanded to include Rockaway Loop (MOR, Rockaway Twp.); Prior SHPO Opinion: 9/24/1996)

Old Main Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad Historic District (ID#3525)

See Main Entry / Filed Location:

HUDSON County, Hoboken City

60 Franklin Road

SHPO Opinion: 11/14/1995 (Demolished)

Pollard House (ID#2896)

1337 Sussex Turnpike SHPO Opinion: 12/12/1991 Henry Pool House (ID#2233)

1329 Sussex Turnpike SHPO Opinion: 12/12/1991 W.C. Pool House (ID#2234)

1209 Sussex Turnpike SHPO Opinion: 12/12/1991 School House (ID#2235)

83 Gristmill Road SR: 12/19/1977

NR: 6/19/1979 (NR Reference #: 79001516) David Tuttle Cooperage (ID#2236)

Riverdale Borough

5 Mathews Avenue (industrial complex) (ID#3397)

2 Mathews Avenue

SHPO Opinion: 5/29/1996 Reeve Homestead (ID#3398)

96 Paterson-Hamburg Turnpike SR: 5/8/1975

NR: 6/18/1975 (NR Reference #: 75001154) (Demolished in November 2019)

Joseph Slater Felt Mill (ID#2237)

211 Paterson-Hamburg Turnpike

COE: 3/18/2005 SR: 5/24/2011

NR: 7/14/2011 (NR Reference #: 11000449) Vanness-Linen House (ID#4411)

Rockaway Borough

82 East Main Street SR: 11/19/1974

NR: 3/4/1975 (NR Reference #: 75001155)

Colonel Joseph Jackson House (Rockaway Public Library) (ID#2238)

Existing and former bed of the Morris Canal

SHPO Opinion: 4/27/2004 SR: 11/26/1973

NR: 10/1/1974 (NR Reference #: 74002228)

(Extends from the Delaware River in Phillipsburg Town, Warren County to the Hudson River in Jersey City, Hudson County. SHPO Opinion extends period of significance for canal to its 1930 closure.)

Morris Canal (ID#2784)

WARREN County, Phillipsburg Town

(Extends from Essex County, Roseland Borough to Warren County, Hardwick Township)

Pennsylvania-New Jersey Interconnection Bushkill to Roseland Transmission Line (ID#5117)

ESSEX County, Roseland Borough