Archaeological Assessment of Project STP-045-1(23), Washington/Hancock County

The proposed project would construct two rassina lanes on State Route 15 between Sandersville and Sparta, Georgia for a total distance of approximately 4.8 km (3.0 mi). A northbound passing lane is proposed between Mileposts 28.1 and 29.6 in Washington County. A southbound passing lane is proposed between Mileposts 1.0 and 2.5 in Hancock County. The existing right-of-way on SR 15 is a variable 30.5 to 36.5 m (100 to 120 ft). The total proposed additional right-of-way would be a variable 0.0 to 6.1 m (0 to 20 ft). An archaeological survey consistent with the proposed right-of-way was conducted for the entire project area. 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 that described above.