Phase I Archaeological Survey of the Proposed SR36 Bridge Replacement over the South River in Butts and Newton Counties, Georgia

Project Description: The proposed project would consist of the replacement of the SR 36 Bridge over the South River. A temporary detour bridge would be erected adjacent to the existing bridge; however, it has not yet been determined to which side of the road the detour would be established. Road alignment impacts associated with the detour bridge would extend along SR 36 approximately 1320 feet on either side of the river. Existing right-of-way is 80-100 feet. No additional right-of-way is anticipated. If possible, the temporary detour bridge would be erected entirely within the existing right-of-way; however, a small temporary easement might be needed. Soil Description: According to the Soil Survey of Butts County, Georgia (Unknown author at USDA 1955) and the Soil Survey of Newton and Rockdale Counties, Georgia (Lathem 2000), the soil types found within the study area are Cecil sandy clay loam, 6 to 10 percent slopes, found on uplands; Cecil sandy loam, 6 to 10 percent slopes, found on narrow ridges and long hillsides of uplands; Toccoa fine sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes, found on small areas between upland slopes and at the head of drainage ways; Hiwassee sandy loam, 6 to 10 percent slopes, found on narrow ridges and hillsides in the uplands; Gwinnett sandy loam, 10 to 15 percent slopes, found on upland hillsides; Gwinnett sandy loam 15 to 25 percent slopes, found on upland hillsides; and Madison sandy loam, 6 to 10 percent slopes, found on narrow ridges in the uplands. Previously Recorded Sites: Site file research conducted on behalf of URS Corporation by staff of the Georgia Archaeological Site File (GASF) revealed one previously recorded site within one mile of the study area. This consists of 9NE87, a prehistoric fishery. Its standing for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places is not known; however, it does not lie within the current project's APE as it pertains to archaeological resources. Previous Surveys: Staff of the GASF also examined survey reports housed at that facility. One previous archaeological survey has been conducted within one mile of the project area and included the project area. This archaeological survey was conducted by Brockington and Associates of Atlanta, Georgia in September 1988 for the Cultural Resources Management at Georgia Power Company.