Archaeological Assessment of Project MLP-37(52), Cook County

The proposed project consists of the widening and reconstruction of State Route 37 from approximately 183 meters (600 feet) east of the Interstate Highway 75 bridge at South Magnolia Street northeasterly to approximately 183 meters (600 feet) east of the SR 37/US 41 junction for a distance of approximately 1.44 kilometers (0.90 miles). The existing right-of-way varies from 24.38 meters (80 feet) to 30.48 meters (100 feet), and an additional 6.09 meters (20 feet) of required right-of-way is proposed. 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 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.