Archaeological Survey of Project STP-054-1(55), Newton County

The proposed project would construct passing lanes at three locations on SR 36, between South River and CR 188, in Newton County. Passing lane 1 begins at MP 6.2 and ends at MP 8.0 for a total distance of 1.8 miles. Passing lane 2 begins at MP 3.3 and extends to MP 5.4 for a total distance of 2.1 miles. Passing lane 3 begins at the north end of the South River (MP 0.25) and ends at the Yellow River (MP 1.31) for a total distance of 1.06 miles. Existing right-of-way is approximately 100 feet. The proposed project would require approximately 20 to 40 feet of additional right-of-way. An archaeological survey consistent with the proposed project description was conducted for 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 Division 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 work of proposed highway projects and are followed during the initial identification of archaeological resources. No existing or eligible National Register 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.