Archaeological Assessment of Project STP-005-4(18)

The proposed project consists of intersection improvements of SR 26/US 80 at Morning Street, East Street at SR 26/US 80, and Coleman Street at Morning Street in the city of Swainsboro,_ Georgia. Also included in this project is the removal and reconstruction of the existing Central of Georgia Railroad bridge over SR 26/US 80. The project begins approximately 40 m (131.2 ft) northwest of the intersection of Coleman Street and SR 26/US 80. The project continues both south and east to end at points approximately 340m (1115.6 ft) east of the 'intersection of East Street and SR 26/US 80 and 30 m (98.4 ft) south of the intersection of Morning Street and Coleman Street. The existing right-of-way along Coleman Street varies from approximately 6.5m to 19 m (21.3 ft to 62.3 ft), while required right-of-way varies from approximately 14 m to 21 m (45.9 ft to 68.9 ft). The existing right-of-way along Morning Street is approximately 12 m (39.4 ft). The required right-of-way for this area is approximately 16 m (52.5 ft). Existing right-of-way along East Street varies from approximately 6 m to 7.5 m (20 ft to 24.6 ft), while required right-of-way varies from approximately 7.5 m to 15.5 m (24.6 ft to 51 ft). Along SR 26/US 80, the approximate existing right-of-way is 29 m (95.1 ft), and the required right-of-way is approximately 32.5 m (106.6 ft). An archaeological survey consistent with the project description was conducted along the entire 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.