Historical research and archeological reconnaissance were conducted for the proposed improvements to six bridges in downtown Atlanta. The six bridges that were investigated included the concrete viaducts for Pryor Street, Courtland Street, Central Avenue, and Washington Street over the CSX and MARTA rail lines, as well as the CSX and MARTA rail bridges over Butler Street and Piedmont Avenue. Surface reconnaissance demonstrated that areas of potential effect for all of the bridges are covered either by modern constructions or a layer of asphalt, concrete, or gravel, limiting the intensity of archeological survey that could be conducted. Instead, the investigations centered primarily on archival research to identify known cultural resources, and to determine as much as possible the types of previously unreported resources that could be present below the modern fill. The archival research demonstrates that the proposed construction is at the heart of the oldest portion of Atlanta, and could include a number of important landmarks relating to the development of the city. It is recommended that any construction that will penetrate below the level of modern fill should be monitored by an archeologist to document any preserved archeological remains that may be of significance.
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