Assessment of Effects to Identified Historic Architectural Resources for the CSXT Intermodal Facility: West Point Support Tracks West Point, Troup County, Georgia

This document has been prepared for use in completion of applicable Section 106 procedures in compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966 and subsequent amendments. This document identifies and assesses the effects to historic architectural properties identified within the area of potential effects of the proposed CSXT Intermodal Facility: West Point Support Tracks in West Point, Troup County, Georgia.

The design of the proposed project was developed by engineering personnel who, as a standard procedure, include environmental parameters as a part of the initial investigations prior to laying out a proposed design. Basic data of the project area that was gathered and studied included aerial photography, topographic maps, previous studies, wetland inventory maps, soil survey maps, flood plain maps, and Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR) historic resource survey maps.

That data was used to delineate wetland or hydric soil boundaries, flood plains, parks and recreational facilities, known or suspected historic properties and archaeological sites, existing rights-of-way, possible UST/landfill/hazardous waste sites, and areas of possible endangered species habitat on the aerial photography prior to laying out an alignment. In addition, other "controls" such as churches, cemeteries, schools, hospitals, and any other noise sensitive areas were also identified.

Only at this point was the proposed alignment developed with every attempt being made to avoid sensitive ecological, historic and archaeological areas. In the event that avoidance was not possible, every attempt was made to minimize harm to such resources. The proposed alignment, once laid out, was then field checked and additional refinements were made to further minimize harm to both the natural and built environment.