Note: Only the underlined, linked portions (see below table of contents) of the Lake Source Cooling Environmental Impact Statement are available on this website. The full document can be found at the Tompkins County Public Library, 312 North Cayuga Street, Ithaca, NY 14850; Cornell Engineering Library, Carpenter Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853; and NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, Division of Environmental Permits, 1285 Fisher Avenue, Cortland, NY 13045-1090. Please contact the Cornell Environmental Compliance Office for more information.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT
LAKE SOURCE COOLING
CORNELL UNIVERSITY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Executive Summary
- Table of Contents for Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS)
- Chapter Summaries
- Glossary of Terms
- Abbreviations
- Units of Measure
- Regulations
- Cornell Center for the Environment Findings
- Scoping Comments
- Distribution List
- Responses to Comments Made During Adequacy Review (including Draft NYSDEC Permits and DEC Findings Statement)
- Responses to Comments Made During Public Review (to be inserted)
CHAPTER 1 - DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED PROJECT
Summary
1.1 INTRODUCTION
1.1.1 SCOPE OF THIS DOCUMENT
1.1.2 GENERAL PROJECT LOCATION
1.2 PROJECT PURPOSE, NEEDS, AND BENEFITS
1.2.1 DESCRIPTION OF LAKE SOURCE COOLING
1.2.1.1 Conceptual Design
1.2.1.2 Hypolimnetic Water as a Renewable Resource
1.2.1.3 Pipelines (Aquatic and Terrestrial)
1.2.1.4 Building and Equipment
1.2.1.5 Intake and Outfall Structures
1.2.2 PUBLIC NEED FOR THE PROJECT
1.2.3 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
1.2.3.1 Reduce Use of Ozone-Depleting Chemicals
1.2.3.2 Decrease Electricity Use and Associated Fossil Fuel Use and Emissions
1.2.3.3 Provide a Reliable, Cost-Effective Cooling System for Cornell University
1.2.4 SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
1.2.4.1 Infrastructure Improvements: Roadways, Sidewalks, Utilities
1.2.4.2 Opportunity for Ithaca School District to Utilize the LSC System
1.2.4.3 Construction-Related Economic Benefits
1.3 LOCATION
1.3.1 GEOGRAPHIC BOUNDARIES OF THE PROJECT
1.3.2 EXISTING LAND USE AND ZONING
1.3.2.1 Heat Exchange Facility Site
1.3.2.2 Pipeline Corridor
1.4 DESIGN AND LAYOUT
1.4.1 HEAT EXCHANGE FACILITY
1.4.1.1 Total Site Area
1.4.1.2 Structures
1.4.1.2.1 Building Size and Layout
1.4.1.2.2 Site Plans and Views
1.4.1.2.3 Materials Storage
1.4.1.2.4 Stormwater Drainage Plans
1.4.1.2.5 Cross-Section of Lake Piping at Shoreline
1.4.1.3 Parking
1.4.1.3.1 Paved Areas
1.4.1.3.2 Number of Parking Spaces and Layout
1.4.2 PIPELINE CORRIDOR (TERRESTRIAL)
1.4.2.1 Volume of Soil to be Excavated/Removed
1.4.2.2 Location and Conceptual Design of the Fall Creek Crossing
1.4.3 PIPELINE CORRIDOR (AQUATIC) 1-48
1.4.3.1 Dimension of Dredged Area
1.4.3.2 Plan for Dredge Spoil Disposal
1.4.3.3 Intake Structure
1.4.3.4 Outfall Diffuser
1.5 CONSTRUCTION
1.5.1 TOTAL ANTICIPATED CONSTRUCTION PERIOD
1.5.2 ANTICIPATED SCHEDULE OF CONSTRUCTION
1.5.3 MATERIALS STORAGE DURING CONSTRUCTION
1.5.4 STORMWATER DRAINAGE STRATEGY DURING CONSTRUCTION
1.5.5 CONTRACTOR HEALTH AND SAFETY PLAN PREPARATION
1.6 OPERATION
1.6.1 TESTING
1.6.2 START-UP
1.6.3 TYPE OF OPERATION
1.6.4 SCHEDULE OF OPERATION
1.7 APPROVALS
1.7.1 JOINT APPLICATION FOR U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS/NYS DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION PERMITS
1.7.1.1 ARTICLE 15, TITLE 5, 6 NYCRR PART 608
1.7.1.1.1 Disturbance of Protected Streams (Section 608.2)
1.7.1.1.2 Water Quality Certification (Section 608.7; also Title IV, Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, as amended by the Water Quality Act of 1987, Public Law 100-4)
1.7.1.1.3 Excavation or Placement of Fill in Navigable Waters (Section 608.5)
1.7.1.2 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Section 10 Permit (Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899, Section 10)
1.7.1.3 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Section 404 Permit (Clean Water Act, Section 404)
1.7.2 GENERAL PERMIT FOR STORMWATER DISCHARGES FROM CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES (Article 17, Titles 7 and 8, and Article 70 of the New York State Environmental Conservation Law; Section 402 of the Clean Water Act)
1.7.3 SPDES PERMIT (NYCRR Chapter X, Subchapter A, Article 3 [SPDES] and Article 2, Part 704 [Thermal Discharges])
1.7.4 NYSDEC WATER WITHDRAWAL REGISTRATION
1.7.5 UNDERWATER LAND EASEMENT (Public Lands Law, Articles 2 and 6)
1.7.6 NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (NYSDOT) HIGHWAY CROSSING PERMIT (17 NYCRR Parts 126 and 131)
1.7.7 CITY OF ITHACA STREET OPENING PERMIT (Ithaca Code, Article IV)
1.7.8 TOWN OF ITHACA SITE PLAN APPROVAL (Zoning Ordinance, Article IX)
1.7.9 TOWN OF ITHACA SLUD CREATION
1.7.10 ARTICLE 15, TITLE 27, 6 NYCRR PART 666 (Wild, Scenic, and Recreational Rivers)
1.7.11 APPROVALS FOR RIGHTS-OF-WAY
1.7.12 BUILDING PERMIT
CHAPTER 2 - NATURAL RESOURCES
Section 2.1 - GEOLOGY AND SOILS
Summary
2.1.1 LAKE BOTTOM SEDIMENTS
2.1.1.1 Environmental Setting
2.1.1.1.1 Texture (Particle Size Distribution)
2.1.1.1.2 Chemical Composition
2.1.1.1.3 Geotechnical Properties
2.1.1.1.4 Bathymetry Along Pipeline Routes2.1.1.2 Impacts of Proposed Action
2.1.1.2.1 Installation of Intake and Outfall Pipelines Along the Lake Bottom
2.1.1.2.2 Disposal of Dredge Spoils
2.1.1.2.3 Turbidity Induced by LSC Intake
2.1.1.2.4 Turbidity Induced by LSC Outfall2.1.1.3 Mitigating Measures
2.1.1.3.1 Burial of Intake and Outfall Pipelines in Shallow Water
2.1.1.3.2 Plan for Construction in Lake
2.1.1.3.3 Dredge Spoils Disposal Plan
2.1.1.3.4 Intake Orientation and Velocity to Prevent Sediment Entrainment
2.1.1.3.5 Outfall Design to Prevent Bottom Scouring2.1.1.4 Unavoidable Impacts
2.1.2 FACILITY SITE
2.1.2.1 Environmental Setting
2.1.2.1.1 Physical Properties
2.1.2.1.2 Soil Types
2.1.2.1.3 Chemical Properties of Surficial Soils
2.1.2.1.4 Earthquake Potential2.1.2.2 Impacts of Proposed Action
2.1.2.2.1 Site Topography
2.1.2.2.2 Chemical Content of Surface Soils
2.1.2.2.3 Erosion Potential2.1.2.3 Mitigating Measures
2.1.2.3.1 Stormwater Management and Erosion Control
2.1.2.3.2 Soil Contingency Plan
2.1.2.3.3 Site Restoration2.1.2.4 Unavoidable Impacts
2.1.3 CHILLED WATER PIPELINE ROUTE
2.1.3.1 Environmental Setting
2.1.3.1.1 Composition and Thickness of Underlying Materials
2.1.3.1.2 Earthquake Potential
2.1.3.1.3 Map of Soil Types
2.1.3.1.4 Physical Properties2.1.3.2 Impacts of the Proposed Action
2.1.3.2.1 Pipeline Route Topography
2.1.3.2.2 Chemical Content of Surface Soils
2.1.3.2.3 Erosion Potential2.1.3.3 Mitigating Measures
2.1.3.3.1 Construction and Reclamation Techniques to Minimize Subsurface Impacts
2.1.3.3.2 Site Restoration Plan2.1.3.4 Unavoidable Impacts
LIST OF TABLES
Table No.
2.1-1 1994 Frozen Sediment Core Laboratory Test Results From Site P4
2.1-2 Trace Metals Concentrations - Soils Samples
2.1-3 Soil Disturbance During Construction
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.
2.1-1 Spatial Extent of LSC Dredge Area
2.1-2 Full Survey Plan View Bathymetry Contours
2.1-3 Full Survey Plan View Bathymetry Color Contours
2.1-4 Full Survey 3-D Perspective Bathymetry with Backscatter Contours
2.1-5 Site Location Map
2.1-6 Surficial Geology
2.1-7 Bedrock Geology
2.1-8 Soil Associations
2.1-9 Depth to Bedrock at Heat Exchange Facility Site
2.1-10 New York State Seismic Zones
2.1-11 Seismic Activity, 1970-1979
2.1-12 HEF Site and Soil Disposal Area Topography After Construction
LIST OF RELEVANT APPENDICES
Appendix
C-8 Hydrothermal Modeling
C-12 Sediment Quality Investigations
C-15 Geotechnical Appendix
C-16 Stormwater Management and Erosion Control
2.2 GROUNDWATER
Summary
2.2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
2.2.1.1 Regional Aquifers and Recharge Areas
2.2.1.1.1 Depth of Water Table
2.2.1.1.2 Seasonal Variability
2.2.1.1.3 Quality
2.2.1.1.4 Quantity
2.2.1.2 Uses of Groundwater (Public and Private)
2.2.2 IMPACTS OF PROPOSED PROJECT
2.2.2.1 Construction at Lakeshore Facilities
2.2.2.2 Construction Along the Pipeline Corridor
2.2.3 MITIGATING MEASURES
2.2.4 UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS
2.3 SURFACE WATER: CAYUGA LAKE
SECTION 2.3.1 - ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
2.3.1 Environmental Setting
2.3.1.1 Classification and Designated Use
2.3.1.2 Human Uses of Cayuga Lake, Public and Private
2.3.1.3 Watershed Characteristics
2.3.1.3.1 Description of the Cayuga Lake Watershed
2.3.1.3.2 Tributary Flows and Hydraulic Retention Time
2.3.1.4 Morphometric Characteristics and Biotic Habitat
2.3.1.5 Water Chemistry, Nutrients, Trophic State, and Dissolved Oxygen
2.3.1.6 Food Web
LIST OF TABLES
Table No.
2.3.1-1 Summary of Cayuga Lakes Morphometric Characteristics
2.3.1-2 Classification and Designated Best Use of Cayuga Lake (Reference 6 NYCRR 898.4)
2.3.1-3 Industrial and Municipal Wastewater Discharges to Cayuga Lake
2.3.1-4 Land Use Within the Cayuga Lake Watershed, 1971 and Current Conditions
2.3.1-5 Watershed Area of Major Cayuga Lake Tributaries
2.3.1-6 Summary of Monthly Historical Average Tributary Flows, Southern Cayuga Lake Basin
2.3.1-7 Means, Medians, and Ranges for Water Chemistry Field Data Collected During the LSC Field Investigations, 1994-1996
2.3.1-8 Summary of Summer Average Trophic State Data, Cayuga Lake, New York
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.
2.3.1-1 Classification of Cayuga Lake
2.3.1-2 Cayuga Lake Watershed
2.3.1-3 Average Monthly Streamflow, Fall Creek
2.3.1-4 Bathymetry of Cayuga Lake
2.3.1-5 Volume of Cayuga Lake with Depth, Late Summer Conditions
2.3.1-6 DO, Temperature, and Percent Saturation Profiles with Depth, Station S11, 8/22/95
2.3.1-7 Isopleths of Temperature and DO at S11, April 25 to November 13, 1995
2.3.1-8 Annual Average Cl Concentrations in Cayuga Lake, 1965-1988
2.3.1-9 Turbidity and TSS Data, Intake and Outfall Region, 1994-1996
2.3.2 THERMAL CHARACTERISTICS
Summary
2.3.2.1 Existing Conditions
2.3.2.1.1 Heat Budget
2.3.2.1.2 Stratification and Mixing
2.3.2.1.3 Hydrodynamic Motions2.3.2.1.3.1 Wind-Induced Drift
2.3.2.1.3.2 Internal Seiche Oscillations
2.3.2.1.3.3 Internal Wave2.3.2.1.4 Sources of Natural Variation in Cayuga Lake Water Temperatures
2.3.2.2 Impacts of the Proposed Action
2.3.2.2.1 Lakewide Impacts: Heat Budget
2.3.2.2.1.1 Model Structure
2.3.2.2.1.2 Model Inputs
2.3.2.2.1.3 Model Verification
2.3.2.2.1.4 Results of 10-Year Simulation Modeling2.3.2.2.2 Lakewide Impacts: Variability in Water Temperature
2.3.2.2.3 Lakewide Impacts: Stratification and Mixing
2.3.2.2.4 Potential Impacts of Global Warming
2.3.2.2.5 Water Temperatures in the Outfall Region
2.3.2.2.6 Sensitivity Analysis
2.3.2.2.7 Impact on Ice Cover
2.3.2.3 Mitigating Measures
2.3.2.4 Unavoidable Impacts
LIST OF TABLES
Table No.
2.3.2-1 Annual Heat Budget, Cayuga Lake
2.3.2-2 Average Monthly Heat Storage Per Unit Surface Area J/M2, Without the LSC Operation
2.3.2-3 Average Temperature and Standard Deviation Recorded by Thermistors at S11, 1995 and 1996
2.3.2-4 Mean Standard Deviation and Root Mean Square of the Temperature Difference (Computed Minus Observed) for the S11 Thermographs for the 1995 Record
2.3.2-5 Difference in Temperature (C) Between Intake Segment and Uplake Segment by Depth and Month
2.3.2-6 Difference in Temperature (C) at the Model Segment Containing the LSC Outfall by Depth and Month, With and Without LSC
2.3.2-7 Difference in Temperature (C) at Model Segment Containing LSC Intake by Depth and Month, With and Without LSC
2.3.2-8 Difference in Temperature (C) at an Uplake Segment by Depth and Month, With and Without LSC
2.3.2-9 Values Entered in Multiport Diffuser Modeling CORMIX2 with Maximum Design Flows
2.3.2-10 CORMIX2 Output, Final Design Case with Maximum Design Flows
2.3.2-11 Plume Temperature, Results of Analysis of Sensitivity to Ambient Current Velocity
2.3.2-12 LSC Monthly Heat Rejection Rate, Contribution to Monthly Heat Storage, and Comparison to Monthly Heat Storage
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.
2.3.2-1 Comparison of the LSC Outfall Temperature to Average Epilimnion Temperature
2.3.2-2 Average Delta Heat Storage Per Month in Cayuga Lake Without LSC
2.3.2-3 Representative Temperature Profiles at Station S11, 1995
2.3.2-4 Time Series of Observed 1995 Temperatures at Station S11
2.3.2-5 Frequency Spectrum Plot From Observed Time Series of Temperature at 20m
2.3.2-6 Comparison of Temperatures at 1-Meter Depth at P2 and S11, 1995
2.3.2-7 Surface Map Showing Longitudinal Segments and Other Features
2.3.2-8 Longitudinal-Vertical Grid of Cayuga Lake
2.3.2-9 Time Series of Modeled Temperatures at Station S11
2.3.2-10 Frequency Spectrum Plot From Modeled Time Series of Temperature at 20m
2.3.2-11 Time Series of Differences at LSC Discharge Segment, May 1992
2.3.2-12 Time Series of Differences at LSC Discharge Segment, August 1992
2.3.2-13 Time Series of Differences at LSC Discharge Segment, October 1989
2.3.2-14 Time Series of Differences at LSC Intake Segment, May 1992
2.3.2-15 Time Series of Differences at LSC Intake Segment, August 1992
2.3.2-16 Time Series of Differences at LSC Intake Segment, October 1989
2.3.2-17 Time Series of Differences at Uplake Segment, May 1992
2.3.2-18 Time Series of Differences at Uplake Segment, August 1992
2.3.2-19 Time Series of Differences at Uplake Segment, October 1989
2.3.2-20 Thermal Profile at S11, With and Without LSC, May 1992
2.3.2-21 Thermal Profile at S11, With and Without LSC, August 1992
2.3.2-22 Thermal Profile at S11, With and Without LSC, October 1989
2.3.2-23A-I Approximate Extent of Selected Thermal Plumes (April - Winter)
LIST OF RELEVANT APPENDICES
Appendix
C-8 Hydrothermal Modeling
C-9 CORMIX Analysis
C-10 Continuous Water Temperature Monitoring, 1994-1996
2.3.3 PHOSPHORUS AND PRODUCTIVITY
Summary
2.3.3.1 Introduction
2.3.3.2 Existing Conditions
2.3.3.2.1 TP and SRP Concentrations
2.3.3.2.1.1 Summer Average Epilimnetic TP
2.3.3.2.1.2 Winter TP
2.3.3.2.1.3 Profiles of Phosphorus Concentration with Depth2.3.3.2.2 Phytoplankton
2.3.3.2.2.1 Annual Succession of the Phytoplankton Community
2.3.3.2.2.2 Chlorophyll a Measurements
2.3.3.2.2.3 Phytoplankton Species Composition and Biovolume
2.3.3.3 Impacts of the Proposed Action
2.3.3.3.1 Projected Changes in Phosphorus Load and Concentration
2.3.3.3.1.1 Total Phosphrus Budget
2.3.3.3.1.1.1 Wastewater Phosphorus
2.3.3.3.1.1.2 Tributary Phosphorus
2.3.3.3.1.1.3 LSC Phosphorus
2.3.3.3.1.1.4 Summary Budget2.3.3.3.1.2 SRP Concentrations in the Outfall Region
2.3.3.3.1.3 Sensitivity Analysis2.3.3.3.2 Projected Secondary Effects on Water Quality
2.3.3.3.2.1 Potential Effect on Water Clarity
2.3.3.3.2.2 Potential Impacts on Dissolved Oxygen Depletion2.3.3.3.3 Projected Biological Impacts
2.3.3.3.3.1 Short-Term (Construction Phase)
2.3.3.3.3.2 Long-Term (Operations Phase)2.3.3.3.3.2.1 Phytoplankton and Chlorophyll
2.3.3.3.3.2.2 N:P Ratio
2.3.3.3.3.2.3 Water Temperature
2.3.3.3.3.2.4 Macrophytes
2.3.3.4 Mitigating Measures
2.3.3.5 Unavoidable Impacts
2.3.3.5.1 Short-Term Impacts
2.3.3.5.2 Long-Term Impacts
LIST OF TABLES
Table No.
2.3.3-1 Historical and Recent Measurements of Summer and Winter Epilimnetic TP
2.3.3-2 Total P and Soluble Reactive P Concentrations and Ratio, Beginning and End of Stratified Period - 1994-1996 TP, 1995-1996 SRP
2.3.3-3 Soluble Reactive Phosphorus (µg/l) During 1968-1969
2.3.3-4 Soluble Reactive P (µg/l) Measured in 1974 at Myers Point
2.3.3-5 Summer Average Chlorophyll a Concentration, Epilimnion
2.3.3-6 Phytoplankton Taxa Found in Cayuga Lake
2.3.3-7 Rooted Aquatic Plant Species Found in Cayuga Lake Since 1987
2.3.3-8 Summary of Input Values - Fall Creek and Cayuga Inlet Total Soluble Phosphorus Loads
2.3.3-9 LSC Total Phosphorus Budget
2.3.3-10 Southern Cayuga Lake Total Phosphorus Budget (Stratified Period)
2.3.3-11 Values Entered in Multiport Diffuser Model CORMIX2 with Maximum Design Flows
2.3.3-12 Soluble Reactive Phosphorus Mixing Summary from CORMIX2 with Maximum Design Flows
2.3.3-13 Plume Soluble Reactive Phosphorus, Results of Analysis of Sensitivity to Ambient Current Velocity
2.3.3-14 NYSDEC Trophic Status Indicator Parameters Measured at Stations P2, P4, and S11, 1994-1996
2.3.3-15 Calculated Secondary Water Quality Impacts of Increased Phosphorus Loading: Impact on DO depletion of Hypolimnion
2.3.3-16 Projected Nitrogen: Phosphorus Ratios
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.
2.3.3-1 Regression of Winter Total P and Summer Chlorophyll a, Deep Finger Lakes
2.3.3-2 Soluble Reactive Phosphorus Profiles at Station S11, 1995-1996
2.3.3-3 Total Phosphorus Profiles at Station S11, 1995-1996
2.3.3-4 Chlorophyll a in 1994-1996 at P2 (0 to 4M Depth) and P4/S11 (0 to 10M Depth)
2.3.3-5 Seasonal Phytoplankton Dominance by Biovolume at P2, 1996
2.3.3-6 Seasonal Phytoplankton Dominance by Biovolume at P2, 1994-1996
2.3.3-7 Projected Phosphorus Budget, Southern Cayuga Lake Basin
2.3.3-8A Approximate Extent of SRP Plume in June
2.3.3-8B Approximate Extent of SRP Plume in July
2.3.3-8C Approximate Extent of SRP Plume in August
2.3.3-8D Approximate Extent of SRP Plume in September
2.3.3-8E Approximate Extent of SRP Plume in October
2.3.3-9 Regression Chlorophyll a and Secchi Disk Transparency, 1994-1996
2.3.3-10 Projected N:P Ratios With and Without LSC, Outfall Near-Field Region
2.3.3-11 Temperature - Growth Curves for Major Algal Groups
LIST OF RELEVANT APPENDICES
Appendix
C-1 Water Quality Investigations, 1994-1996
C-9 CORMIX Analysis
C-13 Phosphorus Budget Analysis, Southern Cayuga Lake
2.3.4 MYSIS RELICTA
Summary
2.3.4.1 Introduction
2.3.4.2 Objectives and Approach of the LSC Field Investigations
2.3.4.2.1 Hydroacoustic Surveys
2.3.4.2.2 Verification of Hydroacoustic Data with Net Data
2.3.4.3 Findings of the LSC Field Investigations
2.3.4.3.1 Life History of M. relicta in Cayuga Lake
2.3.4.3.2 Lakewide Distribution and Abundance of Cayuga Lake M. relicta2.3.4.3.2.1 1995 Lakewide Survey Results
2.3.4.3.2.2 1996 Lakewide Survey Results2.3.4.3.3 Vertical Distribution of M. relicta in the Water Column
2.3.4.3.3.1 Daytime Distribution of M. relicta
2.3.4.3.3.1.1 Light Extinction Through the Water Column
2.3.4.3.3.1.2 Spectral Sensitivity of M. relicta
2.3.4.3.3.1.3 Depth Distribution as a Function of Light2.3.4.3.3.2 Diurnal Migration
2.3.4.3.4 Response to Artificial Light
2.3.4.3.4.1 Response to Artificial Light of Different Intensity
2.3.4.3.4.2 Response to Artificial Light in Benthic Region
2.3.4.3.4.3 Long-Term Response to Artificial Light in Benthic Region
2.3.4.4 Impacts of the Proposed Action
2.3.4.5 Mitigating Measures
2.3.4.6 Unavoidable Impacts
LIST OF TABLES
Table No.
2.3.4-1 Summary of Field Activities
2.3.4-2 Comparison of Hydroacoustic Data, August and September 1995 Lakewide Survey
2.3.4-3 Statistical Analyses of Mysis relicta Lakewide Distribution
2.3.4-4 Depth and Light Levels of Daytime Distribution of Mysis relicta
2.3.4-5 Wavelength-Specific Extinction Coefficients as Measured by UFI at Station S11, June 20, 1996
2.3.4-6 Percent of Hypolimnion Withdrawn by LSC (Permit Conditions)
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.
2.3.4-1 Representative Drawing of Mysis relicta
2.3.4-2 Comparison of Sv to Net Samples (Density)
2.3.4-3 Comparison of Sv to Net Samples (Biomass)
2.3.4-4 Size Distribution and Growth of Mysis relicta in Cayuga Lake
2.3.4-5 Transect Locations
2.3.4-6 Lakewide Survey - September 5, 1995
2.3.4-7 Lakewide Survey - September 7, 1995
2.3.4-8 Average Sv-Aug. 95 & Sept. 95 Lakewide Survey
2.3.4-9 Comparison of 1995 Lakewide Survey Strata Means
2.3.4-10 Comparison of 1996 Lakewide Survey Stratum Means (All Transects Included)
2.3.4-11 Comparison of 1996 Lakewide Survey Stratum Means
2.3.4-12 Thermal Profile at S11, June 20, 1996
2.3.4-13 Depth-Specific Irradiance - Cayuga Lake
2.3.4-14 Mysis relicta Daytime Distribution Stratified Lake Survey
2.3.4-15 Mysis relicta Daytime Distribution Unstratified Lake Survey
2.3.4-16 Diurnal Study - Station S11
2.3.4-17 Light Experiment, Light On
2.3.4-18 Benthic Light Experiment, Light On
2.3.4-19 Long-Term Benthic-Light Experiment
2.3.4-20 Lake Water Intake Structure Design Perspective View
LIST OF RELEVANT APPENDICES
Appendix
C-2 Mysis relicta
2.3.5 LAKE SEDIMENTS
Summary
2.3.5.1 Existing Conditions
2.3.5.1.1 Regulatory Approaches to Sediment Quality and Disposal Options
2.3.5.1.1.1 Federal Guidelines
2.3.5.1.1.2 New York State Guidelines2.3.5.1.2 Results of 1994 and 1996 Sediment Quality Investigations
2.3.5.1.2.1 1994 Sediment Investigation
2.3.5.1.2.2 1996 Sediment Investigation2.3.5.1.2.2.1 NYSDEC Sediment Screening Guidance
2.3.5.1.2.2.2 Split-Spoon Core Samples - Analysis by Quanterra, Inc.
2.3.5.1.2.2.3 Hand Core Samples - Analysis by Battelle Marine Sciences Lab2.3.5.1.3 Results of Other Sediment Investigations
2.3.5.1.4 Results of Biological Investigations in the Littoral Zone2.3.5.1.4.1 Benthic Invertebrates
2.3.5.1.4.2 Rooted Aquatic Plants and Algae (Macrophytes)
2.3.5.2 Impacts of the Proposed Action
2.3.5.2.1 Spatial Extent of the Excavated Region
2.3.5.2.2 Physical Impacts
2.3.5.2.3 Chemical Impacts
2.3.5.2.4 Biotic Impacts2.3.5.2.4.1 Benthic Invertebrates
2.3.5.2.4.2 Rooted Aquatic Plants and Algae (Macrophytes)
2.3.5.2.4.3 Toxicity to Water Column Organisms
2.3.5.2.4.4 Impacts on Drinking Water
2.3.5.3 Mitigating Measures
2.3.5.3.1 Turbidity Minimization During Construction
2.3.5.3.2 Material Handling Procedures
2.3.5.4 Unavoidable Impacts
LIST OF TABLES
Table No.
2.3.5-1 Results of Metal Analyses, Lake Sediments, Cayuga Lake, New York, Summer 1994
2.3.5-2 Comparison of 6- and 10-Foot Core 1996 Sediment Sampling Results from Quanterra (Organic Compounds) to NYSDEC Criteria
2.3.5-3 Comparison of 6- and 10-Foot Core 1996 Sediment Sampling Results (Metals) to NYSDEC Criteria
2.3.5-4 Estimated Concentrations of Metals in Cayuga Lake Sediments to be Excavated
2.3.5-5 Comparison of 1-Meter Core 1996 Sediment Sampling Results (Organic Compounds) to NYSDEC Criteria
2.3.5-6 Comparison of 1-Meter Core 1996 Sediment Sampling Results (Metals) to NYSDEC Criteria
2.3.5-7 Benthic Invertebrate Taxa Found at the South End of Cayuga Lake, New York, July 22, 1994
2.3.5-8 Zooplankton Taxa Found in Cayuga Lake, New York, Summer 1994
2.3.5-9 Chemical Speciation of Trace Metals in Cayuga Lake Water, as Predicted by Chemical Equilibrium Calculations
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.
2.3.5-1 Spatial Extent of LSC Dredging Area
2.3.5-2 1994 Environmental Investigation Sampling Sites
2.3.5-3 Sediment Sampling Points: Cayuga Lake, New York
2.3.5-4 Residences That May Draw Drinking Water From Cayuga Lake
2.3.5-5 Silt Curtain Detail
LIST OF RELEVANT APPENDICES
Appendix
C-12 Sediment Quality Investigations
2.3.6 ZEBRA AND QUAGGA MUSSEL CONTROL MEASURES
Summary
2.3.6.1 Existing Conditions
2.3.6.1.1 Distribution and Abundance of Dreissena
2.3.6.1.2 Status of Dreissena in the Cayuga Lake Ecosystem
2.3.6.1.3 Life Cycle of Mussels
2.3.6.1.4 Implications for the LSC System
2.3.6.2 Impacts of Proposed Action
2.3.6.2.1 Change in Habitat
2.3.6.2.2 Mussel Control Practices2.3.6.2.2.1 Proposed Mussel Control Strategy for LSC
2.3.6.2.2.1.1 Pipeline Pigging
2.3.6.2.2.1.2 Thermal Treatment
2.3.6.2.2.1.3 Manual Cleaning
2.3.6.2.2.1.4 Coatings2.3.6.2.2.2 Regulatory Procedures for Mussel Control Strategies
2.3.6.2.2.2.1 Pipeline Pigging
2.3.6.2.2.2.2 Thermal Treatment
2.3.6.2.2.2.3 Manual Cleaning
2.3.6.2.2.2.4 Coatings
2.3.6.2.2.2.5 Future Regulatory Issues2.3.6.2.3 Impacts of Mussel Control Practices on Uses of Cayuga Lake
2.3.6.3 Mitigating Measures
2.3.6.4 Unavoidable Impacts
LIST OF TABLES
Table No.
2.3.6-1 Factors Affecting Zebra Mussel Distribution
2.3.6-2 1995 Mussel Colonization Experiments, Station S11 Results
2.3.6-3 Available Mussel Control Strategies
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.
2.3.6-1 Mussel Substrate Test Apparatus
2.3.6-2 Mussel Study Locations
2.3.7 CAYUGA LAKE FISH COMMUNITY
Summary
2.3.7.1 Existing Conditions
2.3.7.1.1 Deep Water Fish Community (Intake Area): Reproductive and Thermal Requirements
2.3.7.1.1.1 Lake Trout
2.3.7.1.1.2 Rainbow Trout
2.3.7.1.1.3 Brown Trout
2.3.7.1.1.4 Atlantic (Landlocked) Salmon
2.3.7.1.1.5 Alewife
2.3.7.1.1.6 Rainbow Smelt
2.3.7.1.1.7 Troutperch
2.3.7.1.1.8 Slimy Sculpin
2.3.7.1.1.9 Cisco2.3.7.1.2 Littoral Zone Fish Community (Outfall Area): Reproductive and Thermal Requirements
2.3.7.1.2.1 Smallmouth Bass
2.3.7.1.2.2 Other Species2.3.7.1.3 Distribution of Fish in Cayuga Lake
2.3.7.2 Impacts of the Proposed Action
2.3.7.2.1 Impacts on the Profundal Zone Fish Community
2.3.7.2.1.1 Velocity Field of Influence
2.3.7.2.1.2 Velocity in Relation to Swimming Speed of Fish
2.3.7.2.1.3 Attraction of Fish to the Lighted Intake2.3.7.2.2 Impacts on the Littoral Zone Fish Community
2.3.7.2.2.1 Thermal Plume Projections
2.3.7.2.2.2 Effect on Fish Density, Spawning/Nursery Habitat, and Migration
2.3.7.2.2.3 Effect on Winter Habitat
2.3.7.2.2.4 Potential Impact of Gas Bubble Disease on the Littoral Fishery
2.3.7.3 Mitigating Measures
2.3.7.3.1 Short-Term Impacts (Construction-Related)
2.3.7.3.2 Long-Term Impacts (Operations Phase)
2.3.7.4 Unavoidable Impacts
2.3.7.5 Compliance With Thermal Criteria, New York State Environmental Conservation Law
2.3.7.5.1 Outfall Requirements
2.3.7.5.2 Intake Requirements
LIST OF TABLES
Table No.
2.3.7-1 Fish Species Present in Cayuga Lake, New York Reported by Chiotti 1977, 1980
2.3.7-2 Temperatures at Which Cayuga Lakes Cold Water Fish are Most Abundant During Stratification
2.3.7-3 Spawning Requirements for Common Deep Water Fish of Cayuga Lake, New York
2.3.7-4 Spawning Requirements for Common Littoral Fish of Cayuga Lake, New York
2.3.7-5 Fish Density, Percent Distribution With Depth During April 1996 Survey, Southern Cayuga Lake, New York
2.3.7-6 Size Distribution of Fish Detected During April 1996 Hydroacoustical Survey
2.3.7-7 Comparison of Fish Density and Average Size in Various Regions of Cayuga Lake, New York, Based on Hydroacoustical Surveys on August 6-7, October 6-7, 1994, and April 3-4, 1996
2.3.7-8 Temperature Differential Between 60 m and 70 m at S11 During 1995 Monitoring Program
2.3.7-9 Velocity Flow Field at LSC Intake as Predicted by Analytical Calculations
2.3.7-10 Saturation of Water With Dissolved Gases at LSC Intake and Outfall Temperatures
2.3.7-11 Approximate Distance at Which Average Plume Temperature is Within 3.0°F (1.7°C) of Ambient
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.
2.3.7-1 Migration of Selected Fish Species Collected at Cayuga Inlet
2.3.7-2 Fish Densities, Cayuga Lake, August 1994 as Measured by Hydroacoustical Survey
2.3.7-3 Relative Fish Densities, Southern Cayuga Lake Basin, October 26, 1994 (Night Survey)
2.3.7-4 Cayuga Lake Hydroacoustical Transects on October 27, 1994 (Night)
2.3.7-5 Spring Fish Survey Transects
2.3.7-6 Fish Distribution by Depth, April 1996, Southern Cayuga Lake Basin
2.3.7-7 Relationship Between Water Temperature and Cruising Speed of Alewife
2.3.7-8 Comparison of the LSC Outfall Temperature to Average Epilimnion Temperature
LIST OF RELEVANT APPENDICES
Appendix
C-8 Hydrothermal Modeling
2.4 SURFACE WATER: TRIBUTARIES
Summary
2.4.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
2.4.2 IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
2.4.2.1 Renwick Brook
2.4.2.2 Unnamed Tributary No. 70
2.4.2.3 Pleasant Grove Brook
2.4.2.4 Fall Creek
2.4.3 MITIGATING MEASURES
2.4.4 UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS
2.5 AIR RESOURCES
Summary
2.5.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
2.5.1.1 Climate
2.5.1.2 Air Quality
2.5.1.2.1 Criteria Pollutants Summary
2.5.2 IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
2.5.2.1 Short-Term (Construction)
2.5.2.1.1 Changes in Traffic Patterns and Associated Air Quality Impacts
2.5.2.1.2 Construction Vehicles, Equipment, and Road Surfacing Materials
2.5.2.1.3 Earthwork Activities
2.5.2.2 Long-Term (Operations)
2.5.2.2.1 Reduction in Fossil Fuels Burned to Produce Electricity
2.5.2.2.2 Reduction in Use of Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
2.5.3 MITIGATING MEASURES
2.5.3.1 Minimize Dust During Construction
2.5.3.2 Traffic Control Plan to Minimize Congestion and Delay
2.5.3.3 CFC Chiller Decommissioning and Conversion Plan
2.5.4 UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS
2.6 TERRESTRIAL ECOLOGY
Summary
2.6.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
2.6.1.1 Vegetation Classification
2.6.1.2 Vegetation Survey
2.6.1.2.1 Field Data Collection
2.6.1.3 Project Area Vegetation Association
2.6.1.3.1 Black Locust/Black Cherry Association (BL/BC)
2.6.1.3.2 White Oak/Chestnut Oak Association (WO/CO)
2.6.1.3.3 Renwick Brook/Streamside Association (RB)
2.6.1.3.4 Eastern Red Cedar/Herbaceous Association (ERC/H)
2.6.1.3.5 Tartarian Honeysuckle Shrub Association (TH/S)
2.6.1.3.6 Norway Maple Association (NM)
2.6.1.3.7 Staghorn Sumac/Shrub Association (SS/S)
2.6.1.3.8 Eastern Cottonwood Association (EC)
2.6.1.3.9 Goldenrod/Open Association (GR/O)
2.6.1.3.10 Black Walnut/Black Locust Association (BW/BL)
2.6.1.3.11 Hackberry/Black Locust Association (H/BL)
2.6.1.3.12 Japanese Knotweed/Tartarian Honeysuckle Association (JK/TH)
2.6.1.3.13 Black Locust/Tree of Heaven Association (BL/T of H)
2.6.1.3.14 Maintained Grassland Right-of-Way (MG)
2.6.1.3.15 Planted/Maintained Trees (MT)
2.6.1.3.16 Urban/Disturbed (UD)
2.6.1.3.17 Residential (R)
2.6.1.3.18 Unique Natural Areas
2.6.1.3.19 Threatened or Endangered Species
2.6.1.4 Wetlands
2.6.1.5 Wildlife
2.6.1.5.1 Cayuga Lake Habitat
2.6.1.5.2 Lakeshore Habitat
2.6.1.5.3 Urban/Residential Habitat
2.6.1.5.4 Undeveloped Habitat
2.6.1.5.5 Wildlife Surveys
2.6.2 IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
2.6.2.1 Short-Term (Construction)
2.6.2.1.1 Vegetation
2.6.2.1.2 Wetlands
2.6.2.1.3 Wildlife2.6.2.2 Long-Term (Operations)
2.6.2.2.1 Vegetation
2.6.2.2.2 Wildlife
2.6.3 MITIGATING MEASURES
2.6.3.1 Minimize Disturbance of Vegetation
2.6.3.1.1 Revegetation
2.6.3.1.2 Tree Protection2.6.3.1.2.1 Trunk Protection
2.6.3.1.2.2 Foliage Protection
2.6.3.1.2.3 Root System Protection
2.6.3.1.2.4 Post-Construction Monitoring
2.6.3.2 Maintenance Practices on the Pipeline Right-of-Way
2.6.3.3 Minimize Disturbance of Wetlands
2.6.3.4 Minimize Disturbance of Wildlife
2.6.4 UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS
LIST OF TABLES
Table No.
2.6-1 Impact on the Vegetation Associations Within Construction and Staging Areas
2.6-2 Trees to be Protected/Removed Within LSC Construction Limits of Disturbance
2.6-3 Wildlife Species Likely to Use, or Confirmed On, Project Area Habitats and Cayuga Lake
2.6-4 List of Plants for Revegetation of Disturbed Areas
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No.
2.6-1 Vegetation Associations, Town of Ithaca
2.6-2 Vegetation Associations, City of Ithaca
2.6-3 Vegetation Associations, Cornell Campus
2.6-4 Successional Stages, Town of Ithaca
2.6-5 Successional Stages, City of Ithaca
2.6-6 Successional Stages, Cornell Campus
2.6-7 Wildlife Habitats, Town of Ithaca
2.6-8 Wildlife Habitats, City of Ithaca
2.6-9 Wildlife Habitats, Cornell Campus
2.6-10 Potential Vegetation Impacts, Town of Ithaca (HEF, Area 1, Area 2)
2.6-11 Potential Vegetation Impacts, Town of Ithaca (Area 3)
2.6-12 Potential Vegetation Impacts, Town of Ithaca (Area 4)
2.6-13 Potential Vegetation Impacts, Town of Ithaca (Area 5)
2.6-14 Potential Vegetation Impacts, Town of Ithaca (Area 6)
2.6-15 Potential Vegetation Impacts, Town of Ithaca (Area 7)
2.6-16 Potential Vegetation Impacts, Town of Ithaca (Area 8)
2.6-17 Potential Vegetation Impacts, City of Ithaca (Area 9)
2.6-18 Potential Vegetation Impacts, City of Ithaca (Area 10)
2.6-19 Potential Vegetation Impacts, City of Ithaca (Area 11)
2.6-20 Potential Vegetation Impacts, City of Ithaca/Cornell Campus (Area 12)
2.6-21 Potential Vegetation Impacts, Cornell Campus (Area 13)
2.6-22 Potential Vegetation Impacts, Cornell Campus (Area 14)
2.6-23 Potential Vegetation Impacts, Cornell Campus (Area 15)
2.6-24 Protection of Existing Trees During Construction - Option 1
2.6-25 Protection of Existing Trees During Construction - Option 2
2.6-26 Root Protection
LIST OF RELEVANT APPENDICES
Appendix
C-3 Photographic Atlas of Significant Vegetative Assemblages
C-4 Photographic Atlas of Significant Wildlife Habitat
C-16 Stormwater Management and Erosion Control
2.7 AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES
CHAPTER 3 - HUMAN RESOURCES
3.1 TRANSPORTATION SERVICES 3.1-1
Summary 3.1-1
3.1.1 ROADWAYS INVOLVED IN CHILLED WATER PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION 3.1-1
3.1.2 GENERAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION OF PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION ON THE ROADWAY NETWORK 3.1-3
3.1.2.1 Efficient Schedule 3.1-3
3.1.2.2 Detours 3.1-4
3.1.2.3 Construction Methods and Traffic Control Practices 3.1-7
3.1.3 CONSTRUCTION AND DETOURS AT SPECIFIC INTERSECTIONS AND ROAD SEGMENTS 3.1-7
3.1.3.1 Heat Exchange Facility Site and Surrounding Area 3.1-8
3.1.3.2 East Shore Drive at Chamber of Commerce (Road Segment) 3.1-8
3.1.3.2.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-8
3.1.3.2.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-8
3.1.3.3 James L. Gibbs Drive and East Shore Drive (Intersection No. 1) 3.1-8
3.1.3.3.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-8
3.1.3.3.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-9
3.1.3.4 East Shore Drive from James L. Gibbs Drive to Route 13 Off-Ramp (Road Segment) 3.1-9
3.1.3.4.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-9
3.1.3.4.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-9
3.1.3.5 Route 13 Off-Ramp and East Shore Drive (Intersection No. 2) 3.1-9
3.1.3.5.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-9
3.1.3.5.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-10
3.1.3.6 Cayuga Street Extension and Lake Street (Intersection No. 3) 3.1-10
3.1.3.6.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-10
3.1.3.6.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-10
3.1.3.7 Rosemary Lane Crossing (Driveway) 3.1-11
3.1.3.7.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-11
3.1.3.7.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-11
3.1.3.8 East Shore Drive/Lake Street South of Boynton Middle School (Road Segment) 3.1-11
3.1.3.8.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-11
3.1.3.8.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-11
3.1.3.9 Fall Creek Crossing at Lake Street Bridge (Road Segment) 3.1-12
3.1.3.9.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-12
3.1.3.9.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-12
3.1.3.10 East Falls Street and Lake Street (Intersection No. 4) 3.1-12
3.1.3.10.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-12
3.1.3.10.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-12
3.1.3.11 Fall Creek Crossing at Lake Street Bridge to Gun Hill Apartments (Road Segment) 3.1-13
3.1.3.11.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-13
3.1.3.11.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-13
3.1.3.12 Lake Street from Gun Hill Apartments to University Avenue (Road Segment) 3.1-13
3.1.3.12.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-13
3.1.3.12.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-14
3.1.3.13 University Avenue and Lake Street (Intersection No. 5) 3.1-14
3.1.3.13.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-14
3.1.3.13.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-14
3.1.3.14 University Avenue from Willard Way to Stewart Avenue (Road Segment) 3.1-15
3.1.3.14.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-15
3.1.3.14.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-15
3.1.3.15 University Avenue and Stewart Avenue (Intersection No. 6) 3.1-15
3.1.3.15.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-15
3.1.3.15.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-15
3.1.3.16 University Avenue from Stewart Avenue to West Avenue (Road Segment) 3.1-16
3.1.3.16.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-15
3.1.3.16.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-16
3.1.3.17 University Avenue and West Avenue (Intersection No. 7) 3.1-16
3.1.3.17.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-16
3.1.3.17.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-16
3.1.3.18 Central Avenue Crossing (Road Crossing) 3.1-17
3.1.3.18.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-17
3.1.3.18.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-17
3.1.3.19 East Avenue Crossing (Road Crossing) 3.1-17
3.1.3.19.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-17
3.1.3.19.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-17
3.1.3.20 Tower Road from East Avenue to Garden Avenue (Road Segment) 3.1-17
3.1.3.20.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-17
3.1.3.20.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-18
3.1.3.21 Tower Road and Garden Avenue Intersection (Intersection No. 8) 3.1-18
3.1.3.21.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-18
3.1.3.21.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-18
3.1.3.22 Tower Road and Garden Avenue to Corson-Mudd (Road Segment) 3.1-18
3.1.3.22.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-18
3.1.3.22.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-18
3.1.3.23 Cayuga Street and East Court Street (Intersection No. 9) 3.1-18
3.1.3.23.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-18
3.1.3.23.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-19
3.1.4 RAILROAD SERVICE ALONG PIPELINE ROUTE 3.1-19
3.1.4.1 Existing Conditions 3.1-19
3.1.4.2 Construction Impacts and Mitigating Measures 3.1-19
3.1.5 TRANSIT AND EMERGENCY SERVICES SYSTEM 3.1-20
3.1.6 UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS 3.1-21
3.2 LAND USE AND ZONING IN THE PROJECT AREA 3.2-1
Summary 3.2-1
3.2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 3.2-1
3.2.1.1 Existing Conditions 3.2-1
3.2.1.1.1 Land Use at the HEF and Marina 3.2-2
3.2.1.1.2 Land Use Along the Chilled Water Pipeline Route and in Staging Areas 3.2-2
3.2.1.2 Land Use Plans 3.2-4
3.2.1.2.1 Town of Ithaca Zoning and Comprehensive Plan 3.2-4
3.2.1.2.2 Waterfront Plans 3.2-5
3.2.1.2.3 Tompkins County Trail/Corridor Plans 3.2-6
3.2.2 IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION 3.2-8
3.2.2.1 Change to HEF Parcel 3.2-9
3.2.2.2 Changes in Zoning 3.2-9
3.2.2.3 Changes in Land Ownership and Easements 3.2-9
3.2.3 MITIGATING MEASURES 3.2-10
3.2.3.1 Compatibility with Land Use Planning 3.2-10
3.2.3.2 Visual Design to Improve Existing Surroundings 3.2-10
3.2.4 UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS 3.2-11
3.3 COMMUNITY SERVICES 3.3-1
Summary 3.3-1
3.3.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 3.3-1
3.3.1.1 Police 3.3-1
3.3.1.2 Fire 3.3-2
3.3.1.3 Recreational Facilities 3.3-3
3.3.1.3.1 Cayuga Lake 3.3-3
3.3.1.3.2 Fall Creek 3.3-3
3.3.1.4 Utilities 3.3-3
3.3.1.5 Educational Institutions 3.3-4
3.3.2 IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION 3.3-5
3.3.2.1 Short-Term (Construction Phase) 3.3-5
3.3.2.1.1 Emergency Vehicle Access 3.3-5
3.3.2.1.2 Water, Gas, and Sewer Infrastructure Interruptions in Service 3.3-5
3.3.2.1.3 Recreational Access to Fall Creek and Marina During Construction 3.3-5
3.3.2.1.4 Recreation and Boating on Cayuga Lake During Construction 3.3-5
3.3.2.2 Long-Term (Operations Phase) 3.3-6
3.3.2.2.1 Opportunity for Infrastructure Improvements by Others 3.3-6
3.3.2.2.2 Cooling Provided to School District 3.3-7
3.3.2.2.3 Potential for Chilled Water Pipeline Leaks or System Failure 3.3-8
3.3.3 MITIGATING MEASURES 3.3-11
3.3.3.1 Compliance with Applicable Building and Energy Codes 3.3-11
3.3.3.2 Beneficial Contributions to the Community 3.3-11
3.3.3.2.1 Water and Sewer Utilities 3.3-11
3.3.3.2.2 Roadway and Sidewalk Improvements 3.3-12
3.3.3.3 Lake Recreation and Navigation Hazard Mitigation 3.3-13
3.3.3.4 Design Methods to Minimize Leaks, and to Ensure Detection and Prompt Repair 3.3-13
3.3.4 UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS 3.3-14
3.4 DEMOGRAPHICS 3.4-1
Summary 3.4-1
3.4.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 3.4-1
3.4.1.1 Population and Employment 3.4-1
3.4.1.2 Tax Base 3.4-2
3.4.2 IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION 3.4-3
3.4.2.1 Short-Term (Construction Phase) 3.4-3
3.4.2.1.1 Employment and Construction-Related Economic Benefits 3.4-3
3.4.2.2 Long-Term (Operations Phase) 3.4-3
3.4.2.2.1 Change in Tax Base and Tax Revenues 3.4-3
3.4.2.2.2 Employment 3.4-3
3.4.3 MITIGATING MEASURES 3.4-4
3.4.4 UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS 3.4-4
3.5 VISUAL RESOURCES 3.5-1
Summary 3.5-1
3.5.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 3.5-1
3.5.1.1 Regional Setting 3.5-1
3.5.1.2 Aesthetics 3.5-2
3.5.1.3 Existing Visual Resources Along the Proposed Pipeline Route 3.5-3
3.5.1.3.1 New York State Route 34 (East Shore Drive) Section of the Pipeline 3.5-3
3.5.1.3.2 Northern Lake Street Section (Lake Street from Cayuga Street Extension to Fall Creek; Ithaca Delta) 3.5-3
3.5.1.3.3 Fall Creek and Ithaca Falls 3.5-4
3.5.1.3.4 Gun Hill Slope 3.5-5
3.5.1.3.5 Lake Street and University Avenue from Ithaca Gun to the Campus 3.5-5
3.5.1.3.6 Cornell University Libraries 3.5-5
3.5.2 IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION 3.5-6
3.5.2.1 Visual Impact Analysis Methodology 3.5-6
3.5.2.1.1 Visual Character and Sensitivity of the Site Surroundings 3.5-6
3.5.2.1.2 Visual Features of the Project Facilities 3.5-6
3.5.2.1.3 Viewers 3.5-7
3.5.2.2 HEF Site as Viewed from Land 3.5-7
3.5.2.2.1 Visual Character and Sensitivity of Site Surroundings 3.5-7
3.5.2.2.2 Visual Features of the Project 3.5-8
3.5.2.2.3 Viewers 3.5-10
3.5.2.3 Visual Impact 3.5-10
3.5.3 MITIGATING MEASURES 3.5-11
3.5.4 UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS 3.5-12
3.6 HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES 3.6-1
Summary 3.6-1
3.6.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 3.6-1
3.6.1.1 Geological and Soil Influence of Cultural Resources 3.6-2
3.6.1.2 Prehistoric Context 3.6-2
3.6.1.3 Historic Context 3.6-3
3.6.1.4 History of the General Project Area 3.6-4
3.6.1.5 Archaeological Survey of Project Area 3.6-6
3.6.1.5.1 Project Walkover 3.6-6
3.6.1.5.2 Subsurface Testing Procedures 3.6-7
3.6.1.5.3 Archaeological Survey Results 3.6-7
3.6.2 IMPACTS 3.6.8
3.7 NOISE 3.7-1
Summary 3.7-1
3.7.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 3.7-1
3.7.1.1 Noise Levels 3.7-2
3.7.1.2 Noise Standards and Criteria 3.7-3
3.7.1.2.1 Federal Noise Control Act of 1972 3.7-4
3.7.1.2.2 New York State 3.7-4
3.7.1.2.3 City of Ithaca 3.7-4
3.7.1.2.4 Town of Ithaca 3.7-5
3.7.1.3 Existing Levels of Noise at Project Site 3.7-5
3.7.1.3.1 Noise Measurement at Project Site 3.7-6
3.7.1.3.2 Results of Noise Study 3.7-6
3.7.2 IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION 3.7-7
3.7.2.1 Short-Term (Construction Phase) Noise Impacts 3.7-7
3.7.2.2 Long-Term (Operation) Impacts 3.7-10
3.7.2.2.1 Facility Operation Noise Impacts 3.7-10
3.7.2.2.2 Facility Traffic Noise 3.7-13
3.7.3 MITIGATING MEASURES 3.7-13
3.7.3.1 Construction Traffic 3.7-14
3.7.3.1.1 Impact Methodology 3.7-14
3.7.3.1.2 Analysis Results 3.7-15
3.7.4 UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS 3.7-16
CHAPTER 4 - ALTERNATIVES
Summary 4-1
4.1 EVALUATING THE ALTERNATIVES 4-3
4.1.1 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS 4-3
4.1.2 EFFECT ON PUBLIC NEED 4-4
4.1.3 EFFECT ON SPONSOR 4-5
4.2 NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE 4-5
4.2.1 EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT 4-6
4.2.1.1 Increased Chance of Releasing Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) to the Environment 4-6
4.2.1.2 Higher Electricity Consumption Compared to Lake Source Cooling (LSC) 4-6
4.2.2 EFFECT ON THE SPONSOR 4-7
4.3 ALTERNATIVE COOLING TECHNOLOGIES 4-7
4.3.1 IN-BUILDING CHILLERS V. CENTRAL PLANT 4-7
4.3.2 CONVENTIONAL CHILLER TECHNOLOGY 4-8
4.3.3 REFRIGERANTS 4-10
4.4 ALTERNATIVE FACILITY LOCATIONS 4-11
4.4.1 SPLIT FACILITY 4-12
4.4.2 SINGLE FACILITY WEST OF ROUTE 34 (EAST SHORE DRIVE) 4-12
4.4.3 SINGLE FACILITY EAST OF EAST SHORE DRIVE (PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE) 4-12
4.5 ALTERNATIVE HEAT EXCHANGE FACILITY DESIGN 4-13
4.5.1 SEMI-UNDERGROUND BUILDING WITH SLOPED EARTH BERM 4-13
4.5.2 SEMI-UNDERGROUND BUILDING WITH EARTH ROOF STRUCTURE 4-13
4.5.3 LAKEFRONT FACILITY 4-14
4.5.4 SPLIT FACILITY 4-14
4.6 ALTERNATIVE INTAKE DESIGN 4-14
4.6.1 EFFECT ON ENTRAINMENT OF MYSIS RELICTA 4-15
4.6.2 EFFECT ON PROJECT COST 4-15
4.6.3 EFFECT ON PROBABILITY OF DRAWING IN WARMER WATER 4-15
4.6.4 FISH ENTRAINMENT CONTROL ALTERNATIVES 4-16
4.6.4.1 Intake Screen 4-16
4.6.4.2 Sand Filter 4-18
4.7 ALTERNATIVE OUTFALL LOCATION 4-19
4.7.1 SURFACE OUTFALL AT LAKE SHORELINE 4-20
4.7.2 SUBMERGED OUTFALL AT A DEPTH OF 30 METERS (100 FT) 4-21
4.8 ALTERNATIVE PIPELINE ROUTE 4-22
4.8.1 EFFECT ON TERRESTRIAL RESOURCES 4-22
4.8.2 EFFECT ON TRAFFIC 4-23
4.8.3 EFFECT ON CULTURAL RESOURCES 4-25
4.8.4 EFFECT ON PROJECT SPONSOR 4-25
4.9 ALTERNATIVE SIZE OF LSC 4-26
4.9.1 LARGER: ELIMINATING PEAKING CHILLERS 4-26
4.9.1.1 Regulatory Process for Permitting Larger Flow 4-26
4.9.1.2 Effect on Project Costs and Benefits 4-27
4.9.1.3 Effect on Pipe and Construction Needs 4-27
4.9.2 SMALLER: INCREASED USE OF CHILLERS 4-27
4.9.2.1 Effect on Project Costs and Benefits 4-28
4.9.2.2 Effect on Pipe Size and Construction 4-28
4.10 REDUCED DEMAND FOR CHILLED WATER COOLING ON CAMPUS 4-29
4.10.1 AIR CONDITIONING AND EQUIPMENT COOLING 4-29
4.10.1.1 Effect on Project Costs and Benefits 4-30
4.10.1.2 Effect on Electricity Consumption and Associated Environmental Quality 4-30
4.10.2 DESIGN ALTERNATIVES 4-31
4.10.2.1 Energy Efficiency 4-32
4.10.2.2 Open Windows 4-35
4.10.2.3 Compliance with New York State Energy and Building Codes 4-37
CHAPTER 5 - IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENT OF RESOURCES
Summary 5-1
5.1 LAND RESOURCES 5-2
5.1.1 FACILITY SITE 5-2
5.1.2 SUBSURFACE PIPELINE CORRIDOR (TERRESTRIAL) 5-3
5.1.3 PIPELINE (LAKE) 5-5
5.2 MATERIAL RESOURCES 5-6
5.3 ENERGY RESOURCES 5-6
5.4 FINANCIAL RESOURCES 5-7
CHAPTER 6 - GROWTH-INDUCING ASPECTS OF LAKE SOURCE COOLING
Summary 6-1
6.1 GROWTH IN DEMAND FOR CHILLED WATER COOLING 6-1
6.2 IMPACT OF LSC ON EXPECTED LOAD GROWTH 6-4
CHAPTER 7 - EFFECTS ON THE USE AND CONSERVATION OF ENERGY RESOURCES
Summary 7-1
7.1 HYPOLIMNETIC WATER AS A RENEWABLE RESOURCE 7-2
7.1.1 THE NATURE OF THE RESOURCE: HYPOLIMNETIC VOLUME AND TEMPERATURE 7-2
7.1.2 THE PROPOSED USE: VOLUME CIRCULATED AND HEAT ADDED 7-3
7.1.3 IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED USE ON THE RESOURCE 7-4
7.1.4 PROPOSED USES OF HYPOLIMNETIC WATER IN OTHER LAKES 7-5
7.1.5 OTHER POSSIBLE USES OF HYPOLIMNETIC WATER IN CAYUGA LAKE 7-6
7.2 ENERGY SAVED BY IMPLEMENTATION OF LAKE SOURCE COOLING 7-6
7.3 GENERATING CAPACITY FREED UP BY IMPLEMENTATION OF LAKE SOURCE COOLING 7-7
7.4 CONSISTENCY WITH THE NEW YORK STATE ENERGY PLAN 7-8
7.5 ENERGY EFFICIENCY AT CORNELL UNIVERSITY 7-11
REFERENCES R-1
Appendix
A List of Underlying Reports
B Relevant Correspondence
C-1 Water Quality Investigations, 1994-1996
C-2 Mysis relicta
C-3 Photographic Atlas of Significant Vegetative Assemblages
C-4 Photographic Atlas of Significant Wildlife Habitats
C-5 Photographic Atlas of Visual Character of Project Area
C-6 Traffic Analysis
C-7 Archaeological Investigation
C-8 Hydrothermal Modeling
Appendix
C-9 CORMIX Analysis
C-10 Continuous Water Temperature Monitoring, 1994-1996
C-11 Noise Study
C-12 Sediment Quality Investigation
C-13 Phosphorus Budget Analysis, Southern Cayuga Lake
C-14 Windrose Plots (Wind Speed and Direction, 1991-1995)
C-15 Geotechnical Studies
C-16 Stormwater Management and Erosion Control
C-17 Schematic Design Drawings: Aquatic
C-18 Schematic Design Drawings: Terrestrial
