08-21-2002 Committee Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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0 •l ��cU�Ze� s Additional Bayport Terminal Mitigation Features June 12, 2002 -DRAFT- The Bayport Terminal plan has undergone considerable modification since the concept for the terminal was approved by the Port Commission nearly four years ago. The vast majority of these modifications have been the result of input from citizens and agencies that was provided with a goal of reducing or mitigating the impact of the project on the human environment. The POHA is updating the materials that comprise the permit application to ensure that the reviewing agencies and public have the most accurate information possible about the proposed terminal. This discussion describes those elements of the POHA application that have been included to reduce or mitigate impacts. Buffer Zone and 20-Foot Berm As shown on the enclosed facility drawings, the terminal would have a buffer zone separating the terminal from surrounding land uses. The width of the buffer zone ranges from approximately 130 to 600 feet. Along the southern boundary the buffer zone ranges from 130 to 205 feet. Along Todville Road, the buffer zone is 600 feet wide, narrowing to 300 feet as it approaches Port Road. 128 acres of the project site, or approximately 12% of the total acreage involved in the project would be buffer. Within the buffer zone, a 20-foot tall and 130-foot wide earthen berm would be constructed as shown. The portion of the berm, formerly located between the container and cruise terminals, has been relocated. This section would now be constructed between the cruise terminal and El Jardin (Sheet 2). In addition, POHA would plant the berm with a mixture of deciduous trees and shrubs, designed to minimize noise, light and visual impacts to the surrounding community. The planting would be composed of native deciduous and evergreen species that are typically found within the Galveston Bay area (Sheets 16 and 17). Approximately twenty different species would be used to create a natural appearance and view from nearby residential areas. Additionally, the planting plan has been conceived with the intent that the area would develop into a self-sustaining natural environment within a few short years. Because the berm is being constructed from dredged material, we are proposing to over -excavate the planting pits and introduce a fertile planting backfill mix. This added backfill mix along with a slow release fertilizer would provide the plant material with needed nutrients and help ensure the successful vegetation of the berm. As part of the initial construction, a one-year watering and maintenance period would be included to provide a better guarantee of the desired end result. L4