Archaeological Reassesment of Project STP-004-2(31), Jones County

Project STP-004-2(31) would construct the Gray Bypass in Jones County. This proposed project was subjected to four previous archaeological surveys: September 2000 and July 2001 by Southeastern Archeological Services, Inc. and two subsequent surveys by Teresa Lotti in January 2002 and again in March 2007 (HPD# HP000628-004). Since that time the proposed project has been changed to include widening along the entire mainline and easements in various locations. The widening along the new location mainline varies with a maximum of an additional 200 feet at drainage crossings. The easements also vary in size and can be found throughout the project corridor. The proposed right-of-way for the Gray Bypass now ranges in size from 350 to 450 feet. An archaeological survey consistent with the proposed project description was conducted along the entire length of the 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. By agreement, because no archaeological resources were located within the project's area of potential environmental effect, no signed concurrence from the State Historic Preservation Office is required. 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 that described above.