Archaeological Assessment of Project EDS-IM-545(19)(20), Franklin and Stephens Counties

The proposed project would involve the widening of SR 17, the partial reconstruction on new location of SR 17, and improvements at several iQtersections in Franklin and Stephens Counties. The project will begin at the 1-85 northbound ramp at SR 17 in Lavonia. It continues northwesterly to end on new location at the Rumsey/SR 13 intersection. The intersections of CR 417 and CR 32 and SR 17 would be relocated 91.4 m (300 ft) south of their present alignments. The intersections of CR 140 and CR 108 would be relocated to intersect SR 17 at the same intersection. Required right-of-way would vary from approximately 25 ft to 84 ft (7.6-25.6 m). The minimum required right-of-way on the new location sections would be approximately 61 m (200 ft). An archaeological survey consistent with the project description was conducted along the entire 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. 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.