Archaeological Survey of Project NHS00-0005-00(320), Dooly County

The proposed project consists of modifications to the existing interchange of 1-75 at State Route 215 east of Vienna in Dooly County. The existing two lane bridge over 1-75 would be replaced with a three lane bridge (one lane in each direction with a 14-ft. wide center turn lane). Right turn lanes would be provided from and onto State Route 215. The ramps would be reconstructed to provide improved acceleration and deceleration, and to provide ramp terminal spacing of 1000-ft. The project would improve capacity and safety by providing sufficient storage space for vehicles and trucks on the bridge and ramp geometry that meets current design standards. The maximum amount of right-of-way would be approximately 200-ft. The total project length would be 1.34 miles in length. This project also includes the realignment of Tippettville Road, where it intersects with SR 215. An archeological survey consistent with these project specifications was performed within the project corridor. An archeological survey (Level II) was conducted in accordance with "GDOT/FHWA Cultural Resource Survey Guidelines" developed by the GDOT Staff Archeologists in consultation with DNR Historic Preservation Division Staff and concurred in by the Federal Highway Administration and State Historic Preservation Officer. These guidelines provide general survey boundaries and methodological approaches to archeological surveys based on the type/scope of work of proposed highway projects and are followed during the initial identification of archaeological resources. No existing or eligible National Register resources were located within the project's area of potential environmental effect. It is concluded, therefore, that the project will have no effect upon archeological resources on or eligible for inclusion in the NRHP provided that the project conforms to that described above.