Assessment of Effects to Cultural Resources for the Replacement of the GDOT Bridge over Big Cotton Indian Creek (151-0022-0) on State Route 155

This document has been prepared for use in completion of applicable Section 106 procedures in compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966 and subsequent amendments. The documentation has been developed in accordance with the GDOT/FHWA Cultural Resource Survey Guidelines and 36 CFR Part 800. As such, this document assesses the effects to historic properties identified within the area of potential effect for the proposed improvements to the bridge over Big Cotton Indian Creek, on State Route (SR) 155 in Henry County. This undertaking is referenced as GDOT Project BRST-165-1 (70), or hereafter, as ''the project."

The design of the proposed project was developed by GDOT engineering personnel who, as a standard procedure, include environmental parameters as a part of the initial investigations prior to laying out a proposed design. Basic data of the project area that was gathered and studied included aerial photography, topographic maps, traffic (existing and projected), previous studies, wetland inventory maps, soil survey maps, flood plain maps, and Georgia Department of Natural Resources' historic resource survey maps.

This data was used to delineate any relevant wetland or hydric soil boundaries, flood plains, parks and recreational facilities, known or suspected historic properties and archaeological sites, existing rights-of-'Yay, possible UST/landfill/hazardous waste sites, and areas of possible endangered species habitat on the aerial photography prior to laying out an alignment. In addition, other "controls" such as churches, cemeteries, schools, hospitals, and any other noise sensitive areas were also identified.

Only at this point was the proposed alignment developed, with all attempts made to avoid sensitive ecological, historic and archaeological areas. In the event that avoidance was not possible, every attempt was made to minimize harm to such resources. The proposed alignment, once laid out, was then field checked and additional refinements were made to further minimize harm to both the natural and built environment.