Archaeological Assessment of STP-46-1(31), Newton County

Project STP-46-1(31) consists of maintenance for drainage problems at two sites in the city of Covington. Site 1 is located at the intersection of SR 12 and Hazelbrand Road. Existing right-of-way at the intersection is approximately 24.4 m (80 ft). An easement of approximately 30.5 m (100 ft) by 39.6 m (130 ft) would be required for reconstruction of junction boxes in the southwest quadrant of the intersection. Site 2 is located at MP 7.32 on SR 12, just west of the Mill Street intersection. Work at this site involves the installation of 30.5 m (100 ft) of underdrain pipe to drain into existing cat~'cH-Basins. 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.