Project IM-285-1(350), Fulton County: Preliminary Archaeological Resources Survey

Given that this project is in the early stages of development, a preliminary survey was conducted to identify potential archaeological resources which might be located in the proposed project's area of potential environmental effect. The State Site Files at the University of Georgia were checked to determine previously recorded sites. Aerial photographs along the length of the proposed project were consulted. Civil War maps were checked to identify areas where there was troop activity. As a result of these efforts, two areas were identified, one of which should be outside of the project's area of potential environmental effect and one which needs further investigation. There are no recorded archaeological sites within the project's area of potential environmental effect and the majority of high site probability areas were disturbed by recent commercial and residential development. The McDonald Cemetery located on the north side of 1-20 at the I-20/Martin Luther King Boulevard intersection contains about 20 graves, the oldest of which dates to the mid-1800's. The cemetery appears to be outside of the area of potential environmental effect, but this should be confirmed when construction plans are available. All construction in the area of the McDonald Cemetery should be restricted to the existing right-of-way on 1-20 The project area centering on the I-285S/I-20W intersection is relatively undisturbed by recent development. This area, located just south of Sandy Creek, will be directly impacted by the widening project and should be further investigated. Possible intact cultural deposits relating to prehistoric or historic activity might be located within this area.