Phase I Archeological Survey of the Pleasant Hill Distribution Line Modification for Amicalola EMC in Northwestern Gilmer County, Georgia

This report presents the results of an intensive archeological survey conducted by Southeastern Archeological Services, Inc. (SAS) in northwestern Gilmer County, Georgia, Amicalola EMC wishes to construct approximately 5.3 km (3.3 mi) long distribution line. The new proposed distribution line will replace large sections of existing distribution line, while retaining other currently active distribution line sections, along both sides of Pleasant Hill Road, Seth Hyatt Road, and Mountaintown Road. The proposed distribution line corridor is 10 m (30 ft) wide and will require placement of 54 distribution line poles. Since the placement of the distribution line poles is the only ground-disturbing activity that will occur for this project, pole placement is the area of potential effect (APE). The archeological survey examined all 54 proposed pole placement locations. The goal of the survey was to locate and evaluate any archeological resources that may be disturbed by the new pole placements along the proposed distribution line route. The survey was coordinated by Georgia Transmission Corporation on behalf of Amicalola EMC to ensure that this project is in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended. Archival research revealed no historic structures in or close to the proposed distribution line corridor, and no previously recorded archeological sites were recorded within 2 km (1.2 mi) of the project area.

The survey was conducted April 15 and 16, 2019 by the principal investigator/report author. No cultural resources were recorded within the project area. Therefore, since the proposed undertaking will not adversely affect significant cultural resources, we recommend that the project be allowed to proceed as planned.