Archaeological Assessment of Project STP-065-2(17), Pickens Co.

Project STP-065-2(17) would add an eastbound and westbound passing lane on SR 53 in Pickens County. Symmetrical widening on the eastbound passing lane would begin on SR 53 at mile post 7.25 then continue easterly to an end point at mile post 8.4. Symmetrical widening on the westbound passing lane would begin on SR 53 at mile post 8. 4 then continue easterly to an end point at mile post 10.05. Existing right-of-way on SR 53 is approximately 18.2 meters (60 feet), while the proposed additional required right-of-way will be approximately 9.1 meters (30 feet). An archaeological survey consistent with the proposed rights-of-way was conducted for the entire 4.5 kilometer (2.8 mile) project corridor.

An archaeological survey (Level I) was conducted in accordance with GDOT/FHWA 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.