An Archeological Survey of Proposed Improvements to Barrett Parkway and U.S. 41 Intersection Cobb County, Georgia

On August 31, 2001 an archeological survey was conducted within the area of potential effect for a proposed reconstruction of the existing intersection of Barrett Parkway and U.S. Highway 41 (Cobb Parkway) in northern Cobb County. The project consists mainly of adding or lengthening turning lanes to the existing four- to eight-lane Barrett Parkway and six-lane U.S. 41. A through lane will be added to the eastbound approach of Barrett Parkway. The proposed project was clearly delineated on 1:1200 scale project maps. Very narrow strips (about 2 m, or 7 ft) of new right-of-way are needed along 426 m (1400 ft) of Barrett Parkway. In addition, about an equal length of easement that is usually about 8 m (26 ft) wide but which flares to 15 m (50 ft) in width at the intersection is also needed. The area of potential effect for our survey of the project is the maximum extent of required right-of-way or easement. The intersection is heavily developed with paved and landscaped businesses east of U.S. 41., but relatively undeveloped to the west. This area, however, is steeply sloping. Because Barrett Parkway is very new (less than 20 years) and because the intersection has been so enlarged in recent years, there was no need to conduct archival research for historic resources. The Georgia Archeological Site Files shows no sites at or near the intersection. Our survey confirmed that virtually all of the proposed improvements are within the existing cut and fill lines or areas of heavy development along Barrett Parkway. The undisturbed areas are comprised of steep slopes. Our inspection of the project area detected no archeological sites. No archeological sites exist within the proposed project's boundaries. Therefore, construction will not adversely impact any significant cultural resources and the project should be allowed to proceed..S. 41., but relatively undeveloped to the west. This area, however, is steeply sloping.