During July 2007, Edwards-Pitman Environmental, Inc. (EPEI) conducted a Phase I archaeological survey for the proposed replacement of the SR 216 Bridge over Carter Creek in Randolph County, Georgia. The current investigation is the second addendum to the original survey conducted by Southeastern Archeological Services (SAS) in 2002 (Patton 2002). The first addendum to the SAS survey was conducted by EPEI in 2005. The goal of the survey was to locate and evaluate archaeological sites within the Area of Potential Effect (APE) of the proposed undertaking, so that potential effects to any resources identified could be evaluated in accordance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The project was conducted under a contract with URS Corporation. A review of the Georgia Archaeological Site Files at the University of Georgia in Athens indicated that prior to the SAS survey, no archaeological sites were identified in or near the current project area. In 2002, SAS identified two sites. Both sites were recommended as having unknown eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP); however, it was recommended that the portions of them within the original area of potential effect (APE) did not contribute to their overall eligibility. During EPEI's 2005 survey, no additional archaeological sites or isolated occurrences were identified, nor did the redesigned APE present additional impacts to the previously identified sites. During EPEI's 2007 survey, no additional archaeological sites or isolated occurrences were identified; however, it was apparent that the redesigned APE would affect a previously unsurveyed portion of one site. Positive shovel tests indicated that the boundary of this site extends further to the east and south than previously recorded. A determination of eligibility for the entire site can not be given based upon the limited work conducted at that site; however, EPEI recommends that the portion of the site within the currently defined APE does not contribute to its overall NRHP eligibility. Based on the results of the survey, no further archaeological work is recommended within the APE as currently defined and clearance for construction is recommended.
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