An intensive archeological survey was conducted in late June and early July, 1998 in the area of potential effect for a 4 m wide, 6.5 km long bicycle path that extends from north of Albany to just south of its downtown, along the west bank of the Flint River. Portions of the project area have been totally disturbed by mining, borrowing and landfilling, and other portions have been heavily disturbed by the construction of a sewer line. The proposed path was intentionally designed to avoid potentially significant cultural and natural areas. To obtain a categorical exclusion from Section 404 permitting for the project, an archeological survey was needed to determine if significant sites (those eligible for the National Register of Historic Places) were present and would be affected. Two sites in the project area (9DU82 and 9DU83) had been previously recorded; both were recommended as not eligible to the National Register and we concur with this assessment. Our survey located four additional sites (9DU116, 117, 118, and 119), all of which are prehistoric artifact scatters and all of which we recommend as not eligible to the National Register. They contain sparse and/or disturbed deposits that have little potential to contribute important new information on prehistoric lifeways. Therefore, we conclude that no significant archeological sites will be adversely affected by the proposed construction of the bicycle path.
Help us to continue to make advances in research, stewardship, and bringing the past to life. No matter the size of the gift, your contribution will directly support groundbreaking archaeological research through sustaining student and outreach programs, and technological innovations. To make a secure gift online to the Archaeology Lab Fund, CLICK HERE.