Archaeological Assessment of STP-022-2(13), Butts/Jasper Counties

The proposed project consists of the replacement of the bridge on SR 16 over the Ocmulgee River at the Butts/Jasper county line. The project would begin at approximately MP 17 and would end at approximately 243.8 m (800 ft) east of the bridge. The existing right-of-way is approximately 24.4 m (80 ft) on the Butts County and approximately 30.5 m (100 ft) on the Jasper County side. A maximum of approximately 30.4 m (100 ft) of additional right-of-way would be required north of the bridge. An archaeological survey consistent with the project description was conducted along the entire project corridor. An archaeological survey (Level II) was conducted in accordance with "GDOT/FHWA Cultural Resource Survey Guidelines" developed by the GDOT Staff Archaeologists in consultation with DNR Historic Preservation Section Staff and concurred in by the Federal Highway Administration and State Historic Preservation Officer. These guidelines provide general survey boundaries and methodological approaches to archaeological surveys based on the type/scope of proposed highway projects and are followed during the initial identification of archaeological resources. No existing or eligible National Register archaeological resources were located within the project's area of potential environmental effect. It is concluded, therefore, that the project will have no effect upon archaeological resources on or eligible for inclusion in the NRHP provided that the project conforms to the described above.