Archaeological Assessment of Project SR-2704(4), Forsyth County

The proposed project would reconstruct and widen Pirkle Ferry Road and Maple Street in Cumming. The project as proposed would begin at S.R. 9 then would extend easterly along Pirkle Ferry Road and Maple Street to a point approximately 500 feet west of S.R. 400. Maple Street presently ends at South Ridge Road. As part of the proposed project a 400 foot section of Maple Street would be realigned approximately 100 to 300 feet north of its existing location and would tie into Pirkle Ferry Road at the present intersection of South Ridge Road. In addition, a 200 foot section of Pirkle Ferry Road would be slightly realigned approximately 50 feet to the north to improve a sharp curve at the intersection of South Ridge Road. Required right-of-way varies from 50 to 100 feet. An archaeological survey consistent with the proposed rights-of-way was surveyed for the entire length of the proposed project corridor. An archaeological survey (Level I) 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 significant archaeological resources were located within the proposed project corridor as described in paragraph two above. It is concluded, therefore, that the project will not affect archaeological resources on or eligible for inclusion in the NRHP provided that the project conforms to that described above.