Archaeological Assessment of STP-00MS(334), Butts County

The proposed project consists of the leveling and resurfacing of SR 16 in Butts County. The project would begin at the bridge over I-75 (MP 1.40) and would end at the Jasper County line. Also included in the proposed project would be the construction of 0.60 m (2 ft) shoulders along the length of the project. The existing right-of-way varies from approximately 18.3 (60 ft) to 30.5 m (100 ft). No additional right-of-way would be required for the completion of the proposed project. An archaeological survey consistent with the project description was conducted along the entire project corridor. An archaeological survey (Level I) 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 hat described above.