Phase I Archaeological Survey for the Bridge Replacement on SR 64 over 17-Mile River

New South Associates completed the archaeological survey portion of the Cultural Resource Survey for the bridge replacement on SR 64 over 17-Mile River in response to request by CDM Smith. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is in the planning stages of a proposed bridge replacement project to upgrade the existing bridge over 17-Mile River in Coffee County. The work for this survey was conducted in compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended (36 CFR 800), and was intended to determine the presence of significant archaeological resources in the project's area of potential effect (APE). As per the Scope of Work, background research was conducted at the Georgia State Archaeological Site Files. Background research indicated that there were two previously recorded archaeological sites (9CF83 and 9CF111) and no formal Section 106 compliance-level surveys within one kilometer of the project area. No mention of National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) nomination exists for either site. At the time of the survey, the estimated APE for the current archaeological survey was defined as the proposed 300 feet of right-of-way (ROW) for a length of 2,452 feet. An additional 100 feet (30 m) on each side of the APE known as the Expanded Survey Corridor (ESC) was also surveyed as required by GDOT in the Environmental Procedures Manual. After the fieldwork, official plan and profile concept plans for the proposed bridge replacement were submitted to New South on August 21, 2012. Length and width of the APE remained the same; however, the construction easements beyond the required ROW were added to the northwest side of the bridge. While the construction easement area was added after the project was established, the easement falls within the ESC and was surveyed as part of the original plans. Over the course of the survey, no new archaeological sites were identified. However, two isolated finds were discovered. The isolated finds include one chert flake at Find 1 and one chert flake at Find 2. Neither of these isolated finds meet the requirements to be defined as an archaeological site and, therefore, are not considered eligible for listing in the NRHP. Replacement of the bridge over 17-Mile River is not likely to disturb archaeological sites on or eligible for the NRHP. Upon concurrence with these findings by the State Historic Preservation Office, no further work is necessary to satisfy Section 106 requirements and the planned undertaking may proceed.