Norfolk Southern/Conrail Rail Connection–Bucyrus, Ohio - Surface ...

Operation
Approximately eight trains per day are expected to travel over the proposed connection. The eight trains
per day meets the Board’s thresholds for noise analysis. NS would regularly lubricate the 10 degree
curve of the proposed connection to minimize the friction which causes both rail wear and wheel squeal.
At a maximum operating speed of 25 miles per hour over the connection, increases in noise levels at any
given location should not occur for more than approximately four minutes while a train passes. Train
traffic operating on the proposed connection would generate an Ldn 65 dBA contour of only
approximately 50 feet perpendicular to the proposed rail line (approximately 250 feet at grade
crossings).
As stated previously, 97 residential noise receptors are within the existing Ldn 65 dBA contour. Of
these, 48 residences would experience an increase of only 2 dBA when train operations over the
proposed connection begin. The increase in dBA that the other 49 residences would experience would
be less than 2 dBA. Further, 13 additional residential noise receptors would be within the Ldn 65 dBA
contour of the proposed connection; all 13 would experience an increase of only 2 dBA after
construction. The 61 residences that would experience an increase of 2 dBA are along the existing
Conrail rail line. No schools, libraries, hospitals, retirement homes or churches are within 500 feet of
the proposed project. Therefore, train operation over the proposed connection is not expected to cause
a significant increase in ambient noise levels.
4.1.9 Cultural Resources
4.1.9.1 Evaluation Criteria
Impacts to historic and archaeological resources would be considered adverse (as defined in 36 CFR
800.9) if any site listed or eligible for listing on the NRHP would experience destruction of the site;
alteration of site characteristics or setting; neglect resulting in deterioration or destruction; or transfer,
lease, or sale of the property on which the site occurs if adequate restrictions or conditions are not
included to ensure preservation of the property’s significant historic features.
4.1.9.2 Potential Impacts
The former T&OC freight depot would be demolished to make way for the proposed connection. The
T&OC freight depot is located 200 feet to the south of the former T&OC passenger station. Both
structures were built during the same period and share many architectural features. The T&OC freight
depot appears to be eligible for the NRHP both individually and as part of an historic district with the
former passenger station. The former T&OC passenger station is already listed on the NRHP. If the
SHPO determines that the two buildings are eligible for listing as an historic district, the demolition of
the T&OC freight depot would affect that district. However, mitigation measures, recommended at
HABS Level II, would reduce that overall impact.
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