Archaeological Reassessment of Project BHF-038-2(40), Emanuel/ Burke Counties

The original proposed project would replace the SR 56 bridge over the Ogeechee River, plus the two overflow bridges south of the river. All three will be widened from 25.8 feet to 40 feet. Existing right-of-way along SR 56 is approximately 200 feet; approximately 20 feet of additional right-of-way is required between Station 847+95 to Station 849+48.93, in the northeastern quadrant of SR 56 and the Ogeechee River. All other work will take place within existing right-of-way. Current design changes require the bridges to be built within existing right-of-way east of the existing bridges, and an additional 10 to 20 feet of required right-of-way east of SR 56 between Station 816+10 to Station 827.14 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/FHWA Cultural Resource Survey Guidelines" developed by the GDOT Staff Archaeologists in consultation with DNR Historic Preservation Division 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 work of proposed highway projects and are followed during the initial identification of archaeological resources. No existing or eligible National Register 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.