Archaeological Assessment of Project BRF-161-1(14), Morgan County

The following is being furnished to you for inclusion as written, in the appropriate environmental document: "In compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and amendments thereto, project BRF-161-1 (14), Morgan County has been surveyed with respect to archaeological resources, especially those on or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) . The purpose of the survey was to locate, identify and evaluate the significance of any archaeological resources within the proposed project's area of potential environmental effect. Project BRF-161-1(14) in Morgan County will involve the addition of culvert extensions to the previously cleared bridge replacement project. The proposed project would repair and extend the existing culverts damaged by flooding. Site 1 is located on SR 83 at Speeds Branch. Existing right-of-way is approximately 30.5 m (100 ft). No additional right-of-way would be required for the completion of Site 1. Site 2 is located on SR 83 at Mile Branch. The existing right-of-way is approximately 15.2 m (50 ft). Additional required right-of-way is approximately 15.2 m (50 ft). An archaeological survey consistent with the project description was conducted along the entire 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 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.