Archaeological Survey of Project STP-002-4 (27), Jones County

In compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and amendments thereto, project STP-002-4(27), Jones County, has been surveyed with respect to archaeological resources, especially those on or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The purpose of the survey was to locate, identify and evaluate the significance of any archaeological resources within the proposed project's area of potential environmental effect. The proposed project would construct three passing lanes on SR 44 north of Gray, in Jones County. Passing lane 1 begins at MP 1.61 and ends at MP 2.81; passing lane 2 begins at MP 11.07 and ends at MP 12.42; and, passing lane 3 begins at MP 13.03 and ends at MP 14.55 . Existing right-of-way on SR 44 is approximately 100 feet. Additional required right-of-way is approximately 20 feet, for a total proposed right-of-way of approximately 120 feet. Total length of the project is approximately 4.42 miles. 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.