Archaeological Re-evaluation of Project NH-20-2(137), Richmond and Columbia Counties

Project NH-20-2(137), Richmond-Columbia Counties, consists of the construction of a new interchange on I-20 at Wheeler Road and improvements to Wheeler Road and I-20. The interchange portion of the project begins approximately 900 feet south of I-20 on Wheeler Road and ends approximately 500 feet north of the intersection of Wheeler Road and Flowing Wells Road. This project would also widen and realign Wheeler Road to accommodate the interchange and the new bridge. The existing bridge over I-20 would be replaced with a new bridge and the realigned Wheeler Road. The existing frontage road on the south side of I-20 would be relocated approximately 1200 feet. The realigned Wheeler Road would require 92 feet of right-of-way; the frontage road would require 88 feet of right-of-way. The archaeological survey (Level III) was conducted in accordance with "GDOT/FHWA Cultural Resource Survey Guidelines" developed by the GDOT Archaeologists in consultation with DNR Historic Preservation Section Staff and concurred with 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. An archaeological survey consistent with the proposed project corridor was conducted for the entire length of the project. No existing or eligible National Register archaeological resources were located within the proposed corridor as described in paragraph two above. It is concluded, therefore, that the project will not affect archaeological resources on or eligible for inclusion in the NRHP provided that the project conforms to that described above.".