Archaeological Assessment of Project SAMA-18SP(1) Wilkinson County

In compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and amendments thereto, project SAMA- 18SP(l), Wilkinson County, has been surveyed with respect to archaeological resources, especially those on or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The purpose of the survey was to locate, identify and evaluate the significance of any archaeological resources within the proposed project's area of potential environmental effect. Originally, the proposed project consisted of the leveling and resurfacing of a portion of SR 18 SPUR in Wilkinson County. Also included was the construction of approximately 2 ft shoulders along this portion of SR 18 SPUR. The project would begin at the intersection of SR 18 and would end at the intersection of SR 243 in the city of Gordon, Georgia. No additional right-of-way would be required for the completion of the proposed project. A Level I archaeological survey consistent with the project description was conducted along the entire project corridor.

The current proposed project would extend the project to cover drainage improvements and backslope repairs along the east side of SR 18 in Wilkinson County. This would include the installation of slope drain and storm drain pipes, filling the existing drainage ditch, and construction of a berm at the top of the backslope. This portion of the proposed project would begin at the approximately 0.2 mi north of the intersection of SR 18 and SR 57 and would end approximately 825 ft north of that point. A maximum of 60 ft of additional right-of-way would be required for the completion of the proposed project.