Archaeological Assessment of Project STP-065-3(46), Jackson County

In compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and amendments thereto, project STP-065-3(46), Jackson 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 project area.

The proposed project is the addition of left turn bays at the intersection of SR 53 and SR 124. The proposed project would begin on SR 53 approximately 400 feet south of the intersection of SR 124 and would end on SR 53 approximately 500 feet north of the SR 124 intersection. The existing right-of-way is approximately 60 feet, while the proposed required right-of-way would vary from approximately 65 to 80 feet.

An archaeological survey consistent with the project description was conducted for the entire length of the project corridor. An archaeological survey (Level II) was conducted in accordance with GDOT/FHYA 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.