Archaeological Evaluation of Projects FR-002-6(52) and FR-002-6(53), Clarke and Jackson Counties

Projects FR-002-6(52) and FR-002-6(53) consist of the widening and reconstruction of State Route 15 between Athens and Arcade in north Georgia. Project FR-002-6(52) begins at the intersection of SR 15 and SR 330 in Jackson County and extends in a northwesterly direction for approximately 6.7 miles to the intersection of SR 15 and CR 104. The existing right-of-way is 80 feet; an additional 80 feet of right-of-way would be required. Intersection improvements are proposed along SR 15 at CR 130, CR 110, and CR 348. Project FR-002-6(53) begins at the intersection of Lavender Road and SR 15 in Clarke County and continues northwest for approximately 3.67 miles, ending at the intersection of SR 15 and SR 330 in Jackson County. The existing right-of-way is 100 feet; an additional 50 feet of right-of-way would be required. An archaeological survey consistent with the proposed rights-of-way was conducted for the entire length of the projects' corridors. The archaeological survey (Level II) was conducted in accordance with "GDOT/FHWA Cultural Resource Survey Guidelines" developed by the GDOT Archaeologists in consultation with DNR Historic Preservation Section Staff and concurred with 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 archaeological resources were located within the proposed corridors as described in paragraph two above. It is concluded, therefore, that the projects will not affect archaeological resources on or eligible for inclusion in the NRHP provided that the projects conform to that described above".