i

ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE I. NEED AND PURPOSE........................................................................................... 1 A. Introduction ....................................................................................................... 1 B. Planning Basis for the Action............................................................................. 4

C. Deficiencies in the System ................................................................................ 7 D. Logical Termini .................................................................................................. 10

II. DESCRIPTION OF ALTERNATIVES ..................................................................... 12 A. Introduction ....................................................................................................... 12 B. Build Alternative ................................................................................................ 12 C. Other Alternatives Considered .......................................................................... 17 III. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES ................................................................. 19 A. Introduction ....................................................................................................... 19 B. Effects on the Social Environment..................................................................... 20 1. Land Use.................................................................................................... 20 2. Community Cohesion................................................................................. 24 3. Relocations ................................................................................................ 25 4. Churches and Institutions........................................................................... 27 5. Environmental Justice ................................................................................ 27 6. Economic ................................................................................................... 30

iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)

PAGE C. Effects on the Cultural Environment .................................................................. 31 1. Cultural Resources..................................................................................... 31

a. Historic Resources.............................................................................. 33 b. Effects to Historic Resources .............................................................. 43

c. Archeological Resources .................................................................... 65 d. Section 106 Coordination.................................................................... 66 2. Parklands/Recreation Areas/Wildlife Refuges............................................ 67 3. Section 4(f) Applicability ............................................................................. 76 D. Effects on the Natural Environment................................................................... 76 1. Water Quality ............................................................................................. 76 2. Waters of the U.S....................................................................................... 77

a. Wetlands ............................................................................................. 77 b. Open Waters....................................................................................... 80

c. Streams............................................................................................... 80 d. Measures to Avoid and Minimize Impacts........................................... 81 3. Floodplains................................................................................................. 83 4. Farmland.................................................................................................... 85 5. Threatened and Endangered Species........................................................ 85 a. Species and Effects ............................................................................ 85 b. Section 7 Coordination........................................................................ 89 6. Neotropical/Migratory Bird Habitat ............................................................. 89 7. Invasive Species ........................................................................................ 90 E. Effects on the Physical Environment ................................................................. 90 1. Noise.......................................................................................................... 90 2. Air.. ............................................................................................................ 91

iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)

PAGE 3. Energy/Mineral Resources ......................................................................... 92 4. Construction/Utilities .................................................................................. 92

5. UST/Hazardous Waste Sites...................................................................... 93 F. Permits/Variances ............................................................................................. 93

1. U.S. Coast Guard Permit ........................................................................... 93 2. Forest Service/Corps Land......................................................................... 93 3. Permits... .................................................................................................... 93 4. Tennessee Valley Authority........................................................................ 94 5. Stream Buffer Variance.............................................................................. 94 6. Coastal Zone Management Coordination................................................... 94 IV. DRAFT SECTION 4(f) EVALUATION.................................................................... 95 V. COORDINATION AND COMMENTS .................................................................... 115 Appended Response Letter............................................................................... 120 APPENDICES Appendix A – Correspondence Appendix B – Noise Impact Assessment Appendix C – Air Quality Impact Assessment Appendix D – Conceptual Stage Study Appendix E – Concept Report Appendix F – Public Information Open House and Public Involvement Materials

v

LIST OF FIGURES

PAGE Figure 1 – Project Location Map .................................................................................. 2 Figure 2 – Green Space Concept Location Map .......................................................... 3 Figure 3 – Locations of Sandy Springs Parks and Recreation Areas........................... 6 Figure 4A – Johnson Ferry Road and Bridge Typical Section...................................... 15 Figure 4B – Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road Typical Section ...................... 16 Figure 5A – Current Zoning for Abernathy Road.......................................................... 21 Figure 5B – Future Land Use Plan Map for Abernathy Road....................................... 22 Figure 5C – 2015 Land Use Plan for Sandy Springs ................................................... 23 Figure 6 – Right-of-Way and Easement for the Sandy Springs Christian Church ........ 28 Figure 7 – Historic Resources Location Map ............................................................... 32 Figure 7A – Abernathy Arts Center Boundary.............................................................. 35 Figure 7B – Sears House Boundary ............................................................................ 36 Figure 7C – Roy-Fuller House Boundary ..................................................................... 38 Figure 7D – Long Acres Subdivision Historic District Boundary................................... 41 Figure 7E – Woodward House Boundary..................................................................... 42 Figure 7F – Eden House Boundary.............................................................................. 44 Figure 8A – Right-of-Way and Easement for the Abernathy Arts Center ..................... 46 Figure 8B – Construction Limits for the Sears House .................................................. 48 Figure 8C – Right-of-Way and Easement for the Roy-Fuller House ............................ 52 Figure 8D – Close-up View of the Right-of-Way and Easement from the Roy-Fuller House........................................................................................................................... 53 Figure 8E – Right-of-Way and Easement for the Long Acres Subdivision Historic District ..................................................................................................................................... 56 Figure 8F – Right-of-Way and Easement for the Long Acres Subdivision Historic District..................................................................................................................................... 57 Figure 8G – Right-of-Way and Easement for the Woodward House............................ 60 Figure 8H – Right-of-Way and Easement for the Eden House..................................... 63 Figure 9 – Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Location Map................... 68 Figure 9A –Johnson Ferry Road North Location Map.................................................. 70 Figure 9B –Johnson Ferry Road South Location Map ................................................. 71 Figure 10A – Right-of-Way and Easement Required from Parcel 4 of the CRNRA ..... 72

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LIST OF FIGURES

PAGE Figure 10B – Right-of-Way and Easement Required from Parcel 5 & 5A of the CRNRA ..................................................................................................................................... 73 Figure 10C – Close-up View of ROW and Easement from Parcels 5 & 5A.................. 74 Figure 11A – Stream Location Map ............................................................................. 78 Figure 11B – Stream Location Map ............................................................................. 79 Figure 12 – Floodplain Location Map........................................................................... 84 Figure 13 – 4(f) Avoidance Alternatives Location Map................................................. 96

Figure 14 – 2A and 2B Avoidance Alternatives............................................................ 101

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LIST OF TABLES

PAGE Table 1 – Average Daily Traffic and Level-of-Service Estimates ........................................8 Table 2 – Accident, Injury, and Fatality Rates: Project Corridor Compared to Statewide...10 Table 3 – Minority and Low Income Populations for Geographic Comparison Areas.........29 Table 4 – Summary of Effects to Historic Resources..........................................................65 Table 5 – Federal List of Threatened and Endangered Species for Fulton and Cobb Counties ..............................................................................................................86

1

I. NEED AND PURPOSE A. Introduction STP-9252(6) is the proposed widening and improvements of approximately 1.24

miles of Johnson Ferry Road in Cobb and Fulton Counties from Columns Drive to

Abernathy Road including the widening of the bridge spanning the Chattahoochee River

(see Figure 1, Project Location Map and Other Programmed Projects in the Area). The

proposed improvements to Johnson Ferry Road would widen the existing four-lane

roadway from Columns Drive to Riverside Drive to six lanes including a 16-foot raised

grassed median, 4-foot bike lanes, 16-foot urban shoulders, and 8-foot sidewalks.

Johnson Ferry Road would then maintain four 11-foot travel lanes from Riverside Drive to

Abernathy Road and introduce a 16-foot raised grassed median, 4-foot bike lanes, 16-

foot urban shoulders, and 8-foot sidewalks. The four lane section is being maintained

along this section of Johnson Ferry Road to avoid unnecessary displacements and

reduce impacts to subdivisions and individual properties in this area.

STP-9150(1) is the proposed widening and improvements of approximately 0.93

mile along Abernathy Road in Fulton County from Johnson Ferry Road to Roswell Road

(see Figure 1, Project Location Map and Other Programmed Projects in the Area). The

improvements to Abernathy Road would widen the existing two 12-foot lane roadway to

four 11-foot lanes with a variable 16-foot to 32-foot raised grassed median, 4-foot bike

lanes, 16-foot urban shoulders, and 8-foot sidewalks.

In addition to the two transportation widening projects, Fulton County is proposing

to construct a green space project using the properties aligning both sides of Abernathy

Road from the east side of the Brandon Mill Road and realigned Johnson Ferry Road

intersection to just west of the Sandy Springs Crossing and Sandy Springs Village

shopping centers located to the west of the Roswell Road intersection (see Figure 2,

Green Space Concept Location Map).

This document will outline the environmental impacts associated from the

proposed roadway widening projects as well as the impacts associated from the green

space project sponsored by Fulton County. Impacts associated from the green space

project will be discussed after the transportation project impacts but within the same

section heading.

2

Begin STP-9252(6)

End STP-9252(6)

Begin STP-9250(1)

End STP-9250(1)Green Space

Green Space

Chattahoochee River

Columns Driv

eRiverside Drive

CM-0000-00(640)

STP-7532-00(940)

Study Area for PRP-8540-1(121)

Figure 1:Project Location Map and

Other Programmed Projects in the AreaProject STP-9252(6) & STP-9250(1)

P.I. No. 751300 & 751310Widening and Reconstruction of Johnson Ferry

and Abernathy RoadsFulton/Cobb Counties

5

0 0.5 1 1.5 20.25Miles

Figure 2: Green Space Concept

4

B. Planning Basis for the Action STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1)

The purpose of STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1) is to improve both the operations

and safety of Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road in the Sandy Springs community.

The need and purpose of the proposed improvements are due to high traffic volumes.

Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road are both heavily used by commuters from

Cobb County who are trying to access I-285 and Downtown Atlanta. The proposed

raised median will limit access and create turn bays to allow safer movement of vehicles.

The addition of turn lanes to the corridor will provide safer operating conditions for thru

traffic. The addition of bike lanes and sidewalks will provide a link between the

commercial district on Roswell Road, the Chattahoochee River National Recreational

Area, a planned linear park (green space) along Abernathy Road, and the neighborhoods

on Johnson Ferry Road. The design for this project was influenced by the Citizen’s

Advisory Committee formed to help determine the locally preferred alternative.

Fulton County is a part of Atlanta’s metropolitan area and is a rapidly growing

residential area. It is the largest county in Georgia in both land area and population and

is the region’s most densely populated area. Based on the United States Census, Fulton

County’s population in 1990 and 2000 was 648,951 and 816,006 respectively. Between

1990 and 2000, Fulton County gained approximately 167,055 residents, a 25.7 percent

increase which ranked second in the region in net population increase. The 2010

population projection for Fulton County is 860,797, an increase of 44,791 residents from

the 2000 Census population totals.

In April 2000, the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) adopted the 2025 Regional

Transportation Plan (RTP) for the 13-county Atlanta Metropolitan area. The Plan

addresses travel needs through the year 2025. The RTP is the direct result of a

comprehensive, cooperative, and continuous planning process conducted by ARC, local

governments, and the Georgia Department of Transportation in cooperation with the

Federal Highway and Federal Transit Administrations. The Transportation Improvement

Program (TIP)/RTP recommends roadway improvements along Johnson Ferry Road

from the Chattahoochee River to Abernathy Road under TIP number FN-023 as well as

the widening of Abernathy Road from Johnson Ferry Road to Roswell Road under TIP

5

number FN-034C. The description of the proposed improvements for Johnson Ferry

Road and Abernathy Road are consistent with the ARC air quality model for the Atlanta

region. While these corridors are not shown on a designated state bike route, Fulton

County has also committed to update the county’s and ARC’s Bike Route Plans. As

such, the projects will provide local and through traffic with a facility that will serve current

and future traffic demand and provide the public with a safer driving, walking, and biking

environment.

Green Space Plan

The purpose of the Green Space Plan is to provide Fulton and Cobb Counties and

the Sandy Springs area with a recreational and multi-use facility in which to allow its

neighborhoods and citizens a safe environment to gather and play as a community. The

Green Space Plan originally evolved through a series of community meetings initiated by

then Fulton County Commissioner Tom Lowe, the Fulton County Department of

Environment and Community Development, and Sandy Springs Revitalization, Inc. This

plan called for the acquisition of the residential properties on both sides of Abernathy

Road for a linear park. Purchase of the properties on both sides of the road was

intended to relieve residents from the negative effects such as residential property

devaluation or commercialization that an increased capacity road would cause. It would

also remove the hazard to traffic flow and safety caused by the many residential

driveways entering Abernathy Road.

In addition to these issues, the linear park would also serve another pressing

community problem: the Sandy Springs community’s lack of adequate parks and green

space (see Figure 3, Locations of Sandy Springs Parks and Recreation Areas). The

Sandy Springs updated Comprehensive Plan 2010 states that the community has

approximately 244 acres of parkland to serve a population of approximately 80,000

residents - about a third of what is considered adequate for a community of this size

which is continually growing. The Green Space plan concept would create a system of

multi-use trails along both sides of the roadway and introduce neighborhood-scale traffic

control elements currently lacking in the community. The required right-of-way for

implementation of the Green Space would also provide the opportunity to create linkages

6

Figure 3: Locations of Sandy Springs Parks and Recreation Areas

7

for a cluster of community-oriented amenities such as the trails and playground areas in

the surrounding neighborhoods.

Complete funding for the Green Space is the responsibility of Fulton and Cobb

Counties, including right-of-way acquisition. GDOT is responsible for coordinating the

two efforts, the road widening and green space, together. GDOT will also be responsible

for acquiring the right-of-way needed for both the road widening project and land for the

green space park at the same time to prevent further disruption to the citizens along

Abernathy Road that will be displaced as a result of project implementation by either

project. However, should the condemnation process be implemented regarding a

property or part of a property needed for Green Space, it will be the responsibility of

Fulton County to acquire that parcel.

In addition, a Local Government Project Agreement (LGPA) was signed on

October 20, 2004 between GDOT, Cobb County, and Fulton County. This agreement

details the responsibilities, including funding, for all involved parties of the Green Space

project. A copy of the signed LGPA is included in Appendix A – Correspondence.

C. Deficiencies in the System STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1) would address two basic needs. The first need of

the project is to increase highway capacity, thus providing improved level-of-service

(LOS) for current and projected high traffic volumes. The second need is to improve

operations and safety along the project corridor.

The first deficiency that would be addressed by the proposed projects is under

capacity and declining level-of-service (LOS). As shown in Table 1, Average Daily Traffic

(ADT) along the STP-9252(6) corridor is expected to increase by approximately 30

percent for this section of roadway between 2006 and 2026, increasing from 32,050 -

47,000 vehicles per day (vpd) to 41,700 – 60,000 vpd. ADT along the STP-9250(1)

corridor is expected to increase by approximately 50 percent for this section of roadway

between 2006 and 2026, increasing from 20,090 – 25,380 vehicles per day (vpd) to

29,020 – 34,600 vpd.

Roadways like Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road are rated for operational

effectiveness using a Level-of-Service (LOS) scale. LOS is a standard means of

8

classifying traffic conditions associated with various traffic volume levels and traffic flow

conditions. There are six levels of service at which a roadway can operate, represented

by the letters “A” through “F.” Each level is defined by a maximum value for the ratio of

traffic volume (V) to facility capacity (C). The highest LOS is “A” which occurs when

volume is well below capacity and travel is free flowing. Traffic flow conditions

incrementally degrade as LOS declines from “A” to “B” to “C” to “D.” When the traffic

volume is equal or nearly equal to capacity, conditions are at LOS “E.” The lowest LOS,

“F,” occurs when the volume greatly exceeds capacity and lengthy delays occur.

TABLE 1 Average Daily Traffic and Level-of-Service Estimates

STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1), Fulton County

Average Daily Traffic Level-of-Service

Year 2006 Year 2026 Location Year 2002 Year 2006 Year 2026

No Build Build No Build Build

Johnson

Ferry Road 18,000 –

43,200

32,050 –

47,000

41,700 –

60,000 D - E C, E F C, E

Abernathy

Road 21, 600 –

22,600

20,090 –

25,380

29,020 –

34,600 E C F C

Source: Georgia Department of Transportation, Office of Planning

Also located in Table 1, LOS for the STP-9252(6) project corridor is predicted to

operate between LOS “D” and “E” in 2006 and LOS “F” in 2026 under the no-build

alternative. LOS “D” and “E” indicate the roadway will feature high-density traffic flow in

which vehicle speed is reduced to a low, but relatively uniform value and freedom to

maneuver is extremely difficult. LOS “F” indicates traffic volume greatly exceeds

capacity and lengthy delays occur. If the roadway between Columns Drive and Riverside

Drive is widened to six lanes as proposed, the LOS between 2006 and 2026 would

become “C”, indicating stable traffic flow, but speed and manueverability that are more

closely controlled by the high volume of traffic. East of Riverside Drive along Johnson

9

Ferry Road, where the 4-lane section is being maintained, the Build LOS shows a slight

increase from the No-Build “F” LOS rating to “E” for the year 2026.

The STP-9250(1) project corridor is predicted to operate at LOS “E” in 2006 and

LOS “F” in 2026 under the no-build alternative. If the roadway is widened to four lanes

as proposed, the LOS between 2006 and 2026 would become “C,” indicating stable

traffic flow, but speed and manueverability are more closely controlled by the high traffic

volume.

A second need for widening and improving Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy

Road is to maintain and increase safety on the roadway. For the years 2000 - 2002, the

most recent years for which complete accident data is available, the accident rate on

Johnson Ferry Road has been lower than the statewide average for similar urban

principal arterial roadways and has stayed relatively consistent. Likewise, injury rates

along Johnson Ferry Road are also lower than the statewide averages for similar

facilities and have also stayed around the same value.

On the other hand, Abernathy Road has experienced higher accident rates than

the statewide average for similar urban collectors. However, the injury rates for

Abernathy Road are lower than the statewide average for similar facilities. There were

also no fatalities observed on either roadway during this three year period. Accident data

for the project corridors are summarized in Table 2.

Safety along the roadway would also be improved by the separation of traffic by

raised medians and the addition of turning lanes. Based upon 2000 - 2002 accident

data, approximately 91% of accidents observed during the year 2000 were rear-end

collisions or angle intersecting accidents. In 2001, that percentage dropped slightly to

88% of the total accidents. In 2002, 86% of the total accidents along Johnson Ferry

Road and Abernathy Road were either rear-end or angle intersecting accidents. The

high percentages of rear-end and angle intersecting accidents indicate a need for

directional separation as well as the need for turning lanes along both roadways. These

proposed design features would help improve the safety along both roadways.

10

TABLE 2 Accident, Injury, and Fatalities: Project Corridor Compared to Statewide

STP-9252(6) & STP-9250(1), Fulton County

Accident Rates Injury Rates Fatalities

Year Johnson Ferry

Road / Statewide

Averages

Abernathy Road /

Statewide

Averages

Johnson Ferry

Road /

Statewide

Averages

Abernathy

Road /

Statewide

Averages

Johnson

Ferry

Road

Abernathy

Road

2000 86 / 430 966 / 515 14 / 172 163 / 191 0 0

2001 89 / 485 639 / 540 24 / 190 82 / 200 0 0

2002 76 / 504 639 / 534 18 / 197 150 / 199 0 0 Source: Georgia Department of Transportation, Office of Traffic Operations NOTE: Rates are per 100 Million Vehicle Miles

The project corridor is likely to continually experience rising accident rates if

improvements are not made to accommodate increasing traffic volumes. The proposed

improvements, in particular the addition of a median, the widening of the roadway to

accommodate traffic growth, and the addition of turning lanes would help to serve and

protect motorists as well as maintain and improve safety along the project corridor.

D. Logical Termini The termini are logical for the proposed projects when taken together because of

the overall need to improve capacity, operational, and safety to both Johnson Ferry Road

and Abernathy Road. STP-9252(6) begins on Johnson Ferry Road at the Columns Drive

intersection. This terminus is logical due to the fact that the existing roadway on Johnson

Ferry Road to the west of Columns Drive in Cobb County is a six lane divided highway

with a raised grassed median. The southern terminus of STP-9250(1) would end on

Abernathy Road at the Roswell Road intersection. This terminus is logical because

traffic decreases by approximately 29 percent at the Roswell Road/Abernathy Road

intersection, and the Abernathy Road intersection with Roswell Road is currently a 4-lane

roadway. STP-9250(1) would tie into this existing four lane section of roadway and

proposes to upgrade the failing 4-lane intersection at Roswell Road.

11

The existing Roswell Road/Abernathy Road intersection under current traffic

conditions is in need of much improvement. Currently, there is no roadway project

programmed to address these needs. However, STP-9250(1) does propose the addition

of dual turning lanes in all directions at this intersection. The project also proposes the

addition of a median along Roswell Road to help improve traffic operations and safety.

These additions in safety and operations will not only improve the existing LOS along the

roadway but will also decrease delay time.

In addition, another long-range programmed project, STP-9250(2), proposes the

widening and improvements of Abernathy Road from State Route (SR) 9/Roswell Road

to SR 400. It is anticipated that STP-9250(2) will be needed in the future to handle the

continuing traffic growth to this area of Fulton County.

The proposed projects are viable by themselves, but along with other proposed

projects in the area, they would improve capacity and safety throughout a broader area

of Fulton and Cobb Counties (refer to Figure 1, Project Location Map and Other

Programmed Projects in the Area). Other proposed projects in the area include:

• GDOT project CM-0000-00(640) is the proposed construction of a bicycle

pedestrian path along River Valley Road from Abernathy Road to Riverside Drive

in Fulton County. The construction schedule for this project is for 2005.

• GDOT project STP-9250(2) is the proposed widening and improvements to

Abernathy Road from SR 9/Roswell Road to SR 400. This project begins at the

southern terminus of STP-9250(1). The construction schedule for this project is

long range (outside of six years).

• GDOT project STP-7532-00(940) is the construction of new sidewalks on Johnson

Ferry Road from Abernathy Road to Hildebrand Road. This project is currently

under construction.

• GDOT project PRP-8540-1(121) is the construction of a new Morgan Falls Bridge

crossing from Lower Roswell Road to SR 400. The construction schedule for this

project is long range (outside of six years).

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II. DESCRIPTION OF ALTERNATIVES A. Introduction

The proposed project alignments were developed by the Office of Urban Design.

Basic data on the corridor is then gathered and studied. Data for this project included, at

a minimum, aerial photography, topographic maps, traffic (existing and projected),

previous studies, wetland inventory maps, soil survey maps, floodplain maps, and

Georgia Department of Natural Resources historic resource survey maps.

Wetland or hydric soil boundaries, floodplains, parks and recreational facilities,

known or suspected historical and archaeological sites, existing rights-of-way, possible

UST/landfill/hazardous waste sites, and areas of possible endangered species habitat

were delineated on the aerial photography prior to layout of an alignment. Also identified

on the aerial photography are other “controls” such as churches, cemeteries, schools,

hospitals, and any other noise sensitive areas. Only at this point was the proposed

alignment developed with every attempt being made to avoid sensitive, ecological,

historic, and archaeological areas. In the event that avoidance was not possible, every

attempt was made to minimize harm to such resources.

The proposed alignment, once laid out on aerial photography, was then field

surveyed and additional refinements were made to further minimize harm to both the

natural and built environment.

As discussed below, four alternatives for the widening and improvements of

Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road were considered: the Build Alternative, the

No-Build Alternative, the Extensive Widening Alternative, and Alternative 1. The Build

Alternative is preferred for meeting the need and purpose of the project as well as

minimizing overall environmental impacts.

B. Build Alternative for STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1) The build alternative for STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1) consists of the widening

and reconstruction of Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road in Fulton and Cobb

Counties (refer to Figure 1, Project Location Map). The build alternative for STP-9252(6)

would widen the existing roadway from Columns Drive to Riverside Drive from four lanes

to six lanes separated by a 16-foot raised median. From Riverside Drive to Abernathy

13

Road, the existing four 12-foot lanes would decrease slightly in width to four 11-foot

lanes but include a 16-foot raised median. Eleven-foot lanes in this area of the project

were chosen as a result of the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) public involvement

process. The CAC requested that the footprint for the roadway be minimized in this area

as much as possible reducing the amount of right-of-way needed from adjacent homes.

This footprint also allowed for the minimization of impacts to the Long Acres Historic

District, the Sandy Springs Christian Church, and the Abernathy Arts Center. The bridge

spanning the Chattahoochee River would also be widened from the existing four lanes to

six lanes and include a 16-foot raised median. The build alternative for STP-9250(1)

would widen Abernathy Road from the existing two lanes to four lanes separated by a

variable 16-foot to 32-foot raised median.

STP-9252(6) would begin on Johnson Ferry Road just north of the Columns Drive

intersection in Cobb County. The project would tie into the existing six lane urban

section of Johnson Ferry Road in Cobb County. The project would continue southward

along the existing Johnson Ferry Road in Fulton County, widening the roadway to

accommodate six lanes of traffic (three lanes in each direction) and a raised median.

STP-9252(6) would continue southward and widen the existing bridge on Johnson Ferry

Road spanning the Chattahoochee River. The bridge would be widened to the east to

accommodate six travel lanes and include a raised median. The project would continue

southward until it reached the Riverside Drive intersection. At Riverside Drive, the six

lane typical section would transition to a four lane roadway (two lanes in each direction)

with a raised median. STP-9252(6) would end at the intersection of Johnson Ferry Road

and Abernathy Road where STP-9250(1) would begin. The length of the project is

approximately 1.24 miles.

STP-9250(1) would begin on Abernathy Road at its intersection with Johnson

Ferry Road. STP-9250(1) would tie into the four lane roadway of STP-9252(6) and

include a variable-width (16-foot to 32-foot) raised grassed median with turning lanes.

STP-9250(1) would proceed east along Abernathy Road and end just east of the Roswell

Road intersection. The Abernathy Road/Roswell Road intersection would be improved

by adding dual left turning lanes and a median on Roswell Road and Abernathy Road.

The length of STP-9250(1) is approximately 0.93 mile.

14

One typical section for the proposed STP-9252(6) would include six 12-foot travel

lanes from Columns Drive to Riverside Drive, three lanes in each direction. A second

typical section for STP-9252(6) would include four 11-foot travel lanes from Riverside

Drive to Roswell Road, two lanes in each direction. Both typical sections would include a

16-foot raised median, 4-foot bike lanes, 8-foot sidewalks, and 16-foot urban shoulders

(See Figure 4A, Johnson Ferry Road and Bridge Typical Section and Figure 4B, Johnson

Ferry Road and Abernathy Road Typical Section).

The typical section for the proposed STP-9250(1) would include four 11-foot travel

lanes, two lanes in each direction, separated by a varying width 16-foot to 32-foot raised

grassed median including turn lanes, 4-foot bike lanes, 8-foot sidewalks, and 16-foot

urban shoulders (See Figure 4B, Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road Typical

Section).

There is one major structure included in the widening and improvements of STP-

9252(6). The existing four lane bridge carrying Johnson Ferry Road over the

Chattahoochee River would be widened to the east in order to accommodate

anadditional lane of traffic in each direction. Bridge 121-0457-0 is currently a 314-foot by

65-foot structure which was originally constructed in 1969. The sufficiency rating of the

bridge is 69.60, which does not warrant the replacement of the entire bridge. The

proposed typical section of the Chattahoochee River Bridge includes six 12-foot travel

lanes, three lanes in each direction, separated by a 16-foot raised median, 4-foot bike

lanes, and 10-foot sidewalks with 2-foot gutters. A decorative rail parapet and a path for

pedestrians and bicyclist under the north end of the bridge are proposed additions

requested by the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area and will be designed

prior to project implementation (refer to Figure 4A, Johnson Ferry Road and Bridge

Typical Section).

The existing right-of-way consists of approximately 72 feet on Johnson Ferry Road

and 48 feet on Abernathy Road. The proposed right-of-way on Johnson Ferry Road and

Abernathy Road would vary from 100 feet to 116 feet depending on median width and

number of travel lanes. Both roadways would be constructed to meet a 35 mph design

speed.

15

Figure 4A: Johnson Ferry Road from Columns Drive to Riverside Drive and Bridge Typical Section

16

Figure 4B: Johnson Ferry Road from Riverside Drive to Abernathy Road and Abernathy Road Typical Section

17

For both projects, traffic would be maintained on the existing roadway utilizing staged

construction.

Build Alternative for the Green Space Plan The build alternative for the Green Space Plan consists of the construction of a

green space linear park utilizing the properties currently aligning both sides of Abernathy

Road from the east side of the Brandon Mill Road and realigned Johnson Ferry Road

intersection to just west of the Sandy Springs Crossing and Sandy Springs Village

shopping centers located to the west of the Roswell Road intersection (refer to Figure 2 –

Green Space Concept Location Map). The Green Space Plan consists of the

construction of a linear park which includes the following amenities: a multi-use trail

along both sides of Abernathy Road, playground facilities, several open greenway areas,

and a community center for holding meetings for community groups.

C. Other Alternatives Considered No-Build Alternative The No-Build Alternative has also been considered. The No-Build Alternative is

one in which the Georgia Department of Transportation would take no action to construct

the proposed projects. Please see Section IV, Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation for further

discussion of the No-Build Alternative.

Extensive Widening Alternative

The Extensive Widening Alternative was once considered a viable alternative.

The Extensive Widening Alternative consists of widening Johnson Ferry Road from the

existing four 12-foot lanes (two lanes in each direction) to six 12-foot lanes (three lanes in

each direction) from Columns Drive to River Valley Drive, located slightly north of the

Johnson Ferry Road/Abernathy Road intersection. The Extensive Widening Alternative

would also include a 16-foot raised median, 4-foot bike lanes, 8-foot sidewalks, and 16-

foot urban shoulders. From River Valley Drive to Cherry Tree Lane on Abernathy Road,

the existing four 12-foot lanes transition to four 11-foot lanes and would include a 16-foot

raised median, 4-foot bike lanes, 8-foot sidewalks, and 16-foot urban shoulders.

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The Extensive Widening Alternative was supported strongly by Cobb County but

opposed by Fulton County and the residents residing on Johnson Ferry Road on the

Citizens Advisory Committee. Fulton County opposed this alternative due to the

extensive amount of right-of-way required and community impacts created along this

portion of Johnson Ferry Road which were deemed too extensive and costly (see

Appendix E, Public Information Open House Materials, February 11, 2003 CAC Meeting

Minutes). However, due to the additional capacity and improvements needed to Johnson

Ferry and Abernathy Roads, Cobb County did agree to maintain the proposed four lanes

along Johnson Ferry Road from Riverside Drive to Abernathy Road if all other

improvements were implemented with the widening project.

In addition to the agreement by both counties to maintain four lanes along this

area of the project corridor, a drop in traffic is seen at the intersection of Johnson Ferry

Road and Riverside Drive for those motorists accessing I-285 from this location. Traffic

in 2006 shows 23,500 vehicles per day (vpd) traveling south along Johnson Ferry Road

just before reaching the Riverside Drive intersection which drops to 16,050 vpd after the

Riverside Drive intersection. This is a decrease of approximately 7,450 vehicles. Traffic

predictions for 2026 anticipate 30,000 vpd traveling south on Johnson Ferry Road before

reaching the Riverside Drive intersection which drops to 20,900 vpd after the Riverside

Drive intersection. This decrease is approximately 9,100 vehicles. Level-of-service

(LOS) also improves slightly in this area from “F” to “E” if additions such as turning lanes

and medians are implemented.

Although the Johnson Ferry Road/Riverside Drive intersection will not function

adequately for the design year (2006), motorists will experience a reduction in delay

times due to the addition of dedicated turning lanes on Johnson Ferry Road in both

directions onto Riverside Drive. An additional left turn lane will be added to Riverside

Drive at this intersection on to Johnson Ferry Road which will also aid in the reduction of

delay for motorists. Based on this information, it was determined that operation and

safety improvements could be made without the need to further widen Johnson Ferry

Road to six lanes from Riverside Drive to River Valley Drive.

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Alternative 1

Alternative 1 was also considered as a possible alternative. Alternative 1 consists

of the same proposed features as the build alternative but also includes an option to cul-

de-sac the southern leg of Wright Road. This alternative was developed after several

citizens who attended the Citizens Advisory Committee meetings expressed concern

about the amount of cut-through traffic on the southern end of Wright Road to Johnson

Ferry Road and requested GDOT investigate this problem. During the March 25, 2003

public information open house, a survey was taken of the neighboring subdivisions in the

area to investigate what their opinion would be to cul-de-sac the southern portion of

Wright Road. The survey revealed that the community was closely split between leaving

the southern portion open and the option to cul-de-sac it (see V. Coordination and

Comments and Appendix E for a further discussion of the survey results).

Alternative 1 is not preferred for several reasons. First, coordination with local fire

and emergency personnel regarding this issue was initiated in which they responded with

their desire to leave the southern end of Wright Road open due to their need to access

citizens on Wright Road in a timely manner during an emergency situation and the ability

to access properties using grid system connectivity (see Appendix A - Correspondence

for a copy of the response coordination letter). Secondly, a traffic signal warrant study

was also conducted for the entire project corridor based upon the existing and projected

traffic volumes along Johnson Ferry Road, Abernathy Road, and traffic patterns from

side roads onto Abernathy Road. The signal warrant study revealed that the existing and

projected traffic volumes did not warrant a traffic signal at the intersection of Abernathy

Road and Wright Road. Therefore, Wright Road would continue to be a two-way stop

intersection without the option for a cul-de-sac based on the evaluation of concerns

expressed by the public and recommendations from emergency personnel.

III. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES A. Introduction

The environmental effects of the proposed projects have been evaluated in

accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and associated laws and

regulations. Surveys identified a number of environmental resources on the project

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corridor, including six sites eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places

(NRHP), two Waters of the U.S., and the identification of two public parks. The effects of

the proposed projects on these resources are discussed below.

B. Effects on the Social Environment 1. Land Use Changes

STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1) Land use in the proposed project area consists primarily of urban residential

neighborhoods with some commercial development located near Roswell Road (see

Figure 5A, Current Zoning for Abernathy Road and Figure 5B, Future Land Use Plan

Map for Abernathy Road). The roadway project is aligned in such a way as to minimize

effects to existing developments and current land uses would remain approximately the

same (see Figure 5C, 2015 Land Use Plan for Sandy Springs).

Some residential properties along the project corridor would be adversely affected

by right-of-way acquisitions, particularly in the area of Johnson Ferry Road through the

Long Acres Subdivision Historic District. These effects would be minimized by avoiding

total relocations where possible and by acquiring portions of lots where practical. The

Georgia Department of Transportation does not anticipate any significant adverse effects

to future land use in the project vicinity because Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy

Road have been a part of the landscape of the area for some time and has contributed to

the character of its use. The Department expects residences and businesses in the area

to be positively influenced by the increased capacity, safety, and operation of the

roadway that project implementation would create. The roadway construction is not

anticipated to change the existing land uses along the corridor.

Green Space Plan

Land use within the proposed green space area consists primarily of urban

residential properties and neighborhoods. The green space plan would convert the

residential use of these properties aligning both sides of Abernathy Road to a linear

park/recreational use facility. Land use of these properties as residential parcels would

be adversely affected by right-of-way acquisitions; however, the conversion of these

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Figure 5A: Current Zoning for Abernathy Road

22

Figure 5B: 2015 Land Use Plan Map for Abernathy Road

23

Figure 5C: 2015 Land Use Plan for Sandy Springs

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properties combined to create a linear park/recreational use facility benefits the area by

creating a place where the neighborhoods in the area can congregate and gather

together as a community. Fulton County anticipates residences and neighborhoods in

the area to be positively influenced by the green space/recreational land created. In

addition, the green space would also create a protective buffer between neighborhoods

and the expanded roadway adding safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.

2. Community Cohesion

The proposed transportation improvements should have a beneficial impact on

the cohesion of the community in the Sandy Springs area. The existing two lane facility

of Abernathy Road is currently a crowded roadway deterring vehicular traffic from

reaching destinations such as Cobb County, SR 400, and I-285. If the road is widened

to the proposed four lanes, traffic capacity should increase allowing better movement of

vehicles and allowing for less congestion for motorists and a quicker commute to and

from the interstate. The additional lanes and raised median would also provide

emergency vehicles with a safer and quicker route in responding to potential emergency

situations.

The addition of sidewalks to the project corridor would also promote safe

pedestrian travel along the roadway to locations such as the Chattahoochee River

National Recreation Area, the Abernathy Arts Center, and eventually the green space

linear park. However, the addition of two extra travel lanes and a raised median would

further separate the community allowing for a roadway which is more difficult for

pedestrian traffic to cross. The raised median would allow pedestrians a safe place to

reside while attempting to cross the busy roadway. Sidewalks would allow for safe

movement to the park areas from all surrounding neighborhoods, thereby promoting the

use of the sidewalks for pedestrian travel and preventing increased congestion to the

roadway. The proposed green space would also bring the surrounding neighborhoods

and communities together to an area in which they can enjoy a common recreational

environment.

There are several neighborhoods lining Johnson Ferry Road which are, for the

most part, contained. Currently, pedestrian traffic which may cross Johnson Ferry Road

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to access these neighborhoods is not excessive. Since the neighborhoods are already

separated by the existing Johnson Ferry Road, the addition of a raised median and

sidewalks would not further divide or impact these subdivisions.

Approximately 22 properties residing on the south side and 3 properties on the

north side of Abernathy Road will be displaced as a result of the proposed project. In

addition, approximately 16 additional properties on the north side of Abernathy Road will

be displaced as a result of the proposed green space project. The relocation of the

residents residing along this roadway will impact the community. These residents will

be required to relocate from their current location to other areas either within the

existing community or to other areas of their choice. However, there are several

properties available for sale within the existing community or in surrounding

communities. The relocation of elderly residents along the project corridor will be given

due consideration and given relocation benefits which are reasonable and necessary.

Special circumstances or unique situations will be handled by the Office of Right-of-Way

on a case by case basis.

3. Relocations

STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1) The build alternative minimizes impacts to residents and property to the fullest

extent possible. The proposal to widen and reconstruct the existing Johnson Ferry and

Abernathy Roads represents a major effort by the GDOT to minimize displacements as

much as possible. The impact of the build alternative on residential and commercial

properties has been assessed through a Conceptual Stage Study.

A Conceptual Stage Study was conducted on STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1) to

help determine the effects of the proposed project on businesses and residences in the

project’s area of potential effect. A Conceptual Stage Study attempts to estimate the

number of potential displacements along a proposed project and is associated with

complete takes of property where the proposed roadway would touch an existing

structure. The proposed projects would displace approximately seven verifiable owner-

occupied residences due to the need to purchase land for right-of-way use and no

displacements of commercial businesses.

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The residential displacements are believed to involve approximately 20

individuals, most of who are believed to be white, in relatively good health, and have a

household income that exceeds the poverty level. There are some elderly residents

involved; however, none appear to be handicapped, and all appear capable of self-care.

Also, an additional 28 owner occupied residences would be displaced for various

reasons including the inability of the roadway design to tie residential driveways back

into the expanded roadway due to the steep slope in the area, the cut-fill limits affecting

the residential structures, and the realignment of road beds.

The GDOT can assure that the relocatees would receive the appraised, fair-

market value for their property. Relocatees would also be offered decent, safe, and

sanitary housing within their financial means. Within a reasonable period of time prior to

displacement, a comparable replacement dwelling would be made available for

displaced individuals and families (see Appendix D, Conceptual Stage Study).

The Green Space Plan In addition to the 35 roadway displacements, the Green Space Plan sponsored

by Fulton County would displace an additional sixteen residences along the northern

side of Abernathy Road. The properties would be acquired using funds provided by

Fulton and Cobb Counties; however, these additional properties would be acquired at

the same time during the GDOT right-of-way process as the properties needed for the

road widening project. This will allow for a smooth transition for residents living along

Abernathy Road to prevent them from having to go through the right-of-way process

twice and not be bothered by two separate acquisition periods.

The GDOT can assure that the relocatees would receive the appraised, fair-

market value for their property. Relocatees would also be offered decent, safe, and

sanitary housing within their financial means. Within a reasonable period of time prior to

displacement, a comparable replacement dwelling would be made available for

displaced individuals and families.

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4. Churches and Institutions

There is one church located along the project corridor, the Sandy Springs

Christian Church. The Sandy Springs Christian Church is located northeast of the

intersection at Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road. It consists of a sanctuary

facility, classrooms, a playground, and parking lot facilities surrounding the church. The

church property consists of approximately 5.35 acres on which these facilities are

located.

The road widening project proposes to acquire approximately 495 square feet of

church property along Johnson Ferry Road as right-of-way and convert approximately

0.21 acre of church land into permanent easement (see Figure 6 – Right-of-Way and

Easement for the Sandy Springs Christian Church). This would leave the church with

approximately 5.14 acres of remaining property. There would be no structures or

worship facilities taken as a result of right-of-way or easements acquired. However,

approximately 35 parking spaces out of a total of approximately 250-300 parking spaces

are proposed to be taken as a result of project implementation. The parking spaces

needed to construct the proposed project should not burden the church to a great extent

due to the additional property located behind the church on which they could expand

their parking lot facilities if needed.

5. Environmental Justice

In accordance with Executive Order 12898, the proposed projects have been

analyzed to avoid disproportional adverse effects to minority and low income

populations and communities. Minority persons include citizens or lawful, permanent

residents of the U.S. who are African American, Hispanic, Asian American, American

Indian, or Alaskan native. Low-income persons are defined as those whose median

household income is below the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services poverty

guidelines. Minority or low income communities are groups of minority or low income

persons who live in reasonably close geographic proximity to one another. Minority and

low income populations are minority or low income persons who reside along the

corridor but who do not reside in communities (perhaps because they are widely

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Figure 6: Right-of-Way and Easement for the Sandy Springs Christian Church

29

dispersed). These persons receive protection under environmental justice laws if they

comprise a higher percentage of the corridor’s population than would be predicted

based on census data for some geographically larger comparison area, such as the

county in which the projects are located.

Two geographic comparison areas were chosen for this project: the census tracts

in which the project is located as well as Fulton County. The projects extend through

two census tracts (Tract numbers 102.04 and 102.05). As an aggregate, the population

of these tracts is 6.37 percent minority. As can be seen in Table 3, county-level

percentages range from a low of 15.7 percent to a high of 57.8 percent.

After compiling the comparison area census estimates, the GDOT surveyed the

project corridors to identify minority or low income populations and communities. Prior

to the survey, assistance in identifying possible minority and low income communities

was requested from the Atlanta Regional Commission and the Fulton County Board of

Commissioners.

Based on these efforts, it is estimated that minority and low income persons

comprise less than 16 percent of the entire project corridor population. Since the

census tract and county percentages are comparable to this figure, the corridor is not

the locus of a minority or low income population. Therefore, it is anticipated that the

project will not adversely impact any minority or low income populations.

Table 3 Minority and Low Income Populations for Geographic Comparison Areas*

STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1), Fulton County

Environmental Justice

Population Project Area Census Tracts Fulton County

Minorities as Percent of Total

Population 6.37% 57.8%

Low-Income Persons as

Percent of Total Population N/A 15.7%

*All percentages are derived from 2000 Census Estimates

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In addition, no minority or low income communities were identified during a field

survey of the project corridor.

The results of this analysis indicate that the project would not have

disproportional adverse effects on minority or low income communities and populations.

Based on this finding, the project is found to comply with Executive Order 12898.

6. Economic

The amount of additional right-of-way needed to implement the proposed project

would be minimal and would not result in significant effects on the tax bases for Fulton

County or the Sandy Springs area. Sales volumes for some area businesses may

temporarily drop during the actual construction of the project; however, following

construction, area businesses should benefit from the expected improvement in access

and increases in traffic volumes. Newly planned developments by Fulton County, such

as the green space, would be provided with appropriate access.

The proposed improvements to Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road would

not cause major adverse impacts to neighborhoods. However, reductions in yard and

property size would occur. The project has been designed to minimize effects to

individual properties where possible, and the symmetrical widening in certain areas of

the corridor, would result in less damage to property than would widening to one side.

Property owners would be compensated for all right-of-way acquisitions in accordance

with applicable laws and regulations.

Several citizens during the public involvement process expressed concerns

about Fulton County’s plans for zoning of this residential area. Fulton County’s desire

and commitment to its citizens will allow this area to remain residential as well as create

additional green space and recreation area for the surrounding Sandy Springs

neighborhoods. The County’s goal is to promote community cohesion for this area of

Sandy Springs and not spur extensive commercial development.

Since the present roadway has no median, driveways to residences or

businesses on Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road may be entered or exited from

either direction. Although the variable 16-foot to 32-foot raised medians included in the

proposed widening would have crossovers at major intersections and where otherwise

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deemed necessary, movements at most business and private driveways would be

limited to one way entering and exiting. However, the median would enhance safety for

the highway user and ensure that the capacity improvements are not offset in the future

by heavy left turning movements.

C. Effects on the Cultural Environment 1. Cultural Resources

In compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966

and amendments thereto, the proposed project has been surveyed for archaeological

and historic 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 historic and archaeological resources within the

project corridor. The survey boundary and methodology were established using the

GDOT/Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Cultural Resource Survey Guidelines.

These guidelines were established as a result of past interaction with the State Historic

Preservation Officer (SHPO) and his staff and were agreed upon by FHWA and the

SHPO.

Prior to surveying the project area, existing information on previously identified

archaeological and historic sites was checked to determine if any resources were

located within the area of potential effect (APE) of this undertaking. The Department of

Natural Resource’s Fulton County survey for historic resources was consulted in

preliminary identification of historic resources. Lists of current and pending NRHP

properties were checked and aerial photographs along the length of the proposed

project were consulted. A field survey for potentially eligible historic resources was also

conducted along the project corridor. In addition, the Atlanta Regional Commission

RDC (Regional Development Center) and the Fulton County Department of

Environment and Community Development were contacted for their assistance in

identifying known historic resources.

As a result of these efforts, six historic properties and no archeological sites

considered eligible NRHP resources were identified within the proposed project’s area

of potential effect (APE) (See Figure 7 – Historic Resources Location Map).

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Eden HouseWoodward House

Long Acres Subdivision Historic District

Roy-Fuller House

Sears House

Abernathy Arts Center

µFigure 7: Historic Resources Location Map

STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1)Fulton County

P.I. No. 751300 & 751310

0 0.4 0.8 1.2 1.60.2Miles

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a. Historic Resources

A total of 11 properties 50 years or older were identified within the proposed

project’s APE. After coordination with the SHPO, six of the 11 were determined eligible

for listing on the NRHP. The NRHP-eligible properties are the Abernathy Arts Center,

the Sears House, the Roy-Fuller House, the Long Acres Subdivision Historic District,

the Woodward House, and the Eden House. The locations of the resources are shown

in Figure 7.

The Abernathy Arts Center

The Abernathy Arts Center is a circa 1930 English Vernacular Revival located at

254 Johnson Ferry Road on the south side of Johnson Ferry Road at the intersection

with Abernathy Road (refer to Figure 7). The one-story L-shaped structure is of frame

construction and is sided with stone veneer with a partially finished basement. Features

of the Abernathy Arts Center include a large stone chimney on both of the front and side

elevations, pink marble floors in the rear ell’s former screened porch, and one arched

window opening. Fenestration includes double-hung sash type windows in six-over-six,

three-over-one, and three-over-three configurations, casement windows, and picture

windows.

The Abernathy Arts Center was originally constructed as a residence for Luther

Barney Adams, a local businessman. As the result of Mr. Adams’ subsequent financial

difficulties, the property reportedly fell into disrepair. In 1975, the property was acquired

by the Fulton County Parks and Recreation Department for use as a local arts center. It

was originally known as the River Valley Arts and Crafts Center, named as such for the

River Valley Park, which is adjacent to the property. The facility’s name was reportedly

changed in 1979, upon the request of the Abernathy Family, one of the founding

families of the Sandy Springs community.

Prior to 1975, the Adams residence had not been properly maintained for many

years. Therefore, the property underwent extensive renovations focusing primarily on

the structural nature of the home, with the exception of the enclosure of a former porch

across the rear of the property. Other changes to the residence include the addition of

both front and side porticos and the replacement of some of the original windows.

34

There are two other structures and some tennis courts located on the property.

One of the structures, located to the west of the residence, is a former 2-story garage

that was constructed at the same time as the residence. The former garage is a front-

gabled building that possesses six-over-six double-hung sash type windows and the

same stone veneer exterior as the residence. The structure currently serves as a

storage facility for the arts center. The other structure sited to the west of the former

garage is a newly constructed building that houses administrative offices, additional

classrooms, and an art gallery.

The Abernathy Arts Center is considered eligible for the National Register under

Criterion C, as it possesses a local level of significance in the area of architecture as an

example of the English Vernacular Revival style of architecture.

As shown in Figure 7A, the eligible NRHP boundary of the Abernathy Art Center

corresponds to the legal property boundary and comprises approximately 3.8 acres. All

significant and character defining features of the property are included within the legal

boundary.

The Sears House

The Sears House is a circa 1953 Ranch style residence located at 198 Johnson

Ferry Road on the west side of Johnson Ferry Road south of Burnett Drive (refer to

Figure 7). The residence is a long, rectangular shaped brick structure that is

distinguished by a hipped roof and stacked stone around the entryway. Other features

include an integral carport, two-over-two horizontal type windows, and a Chicago style

window. The Sears House was recommended for listing in the National Register under

Criterion C as it possesses a local level of significance in the area of architecture as an

example of a Ranch style residence.

As shown in Figure 7B, the eligible NRHP boundary of the Sears House

corresponds to the legal property boundary and comprises approximately 0.49 acre. All

significant and character defining features of the property are included within the legal

boundary.

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36

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The Roy-Fuller House The Roy-Fuller House is a circa 1947 Cape Cod style residence located at 178

Johnson Ferry Road on the west side of Johnson Ferry Road at the intersection with

Long Acres Drive (refer to Figure 7). The residence is a frame structure that is sided

with asbestos shingle siding and rests on a continuous stone foundation. Other

features include paired dormers on the front elevation, a large stone chimney on the

north side elevation, paired six-over-six double-hung sash type windows, a side ell, and

a dormer addition on the rear elevation. The Roy-Fuller House was recommended for

listing in the National Register under Criterion C as it possesses a local level of

significance in the area of architecture as an example of a Cape Cod style residence.

As shown in Figure 7C, the eligible NRHP boundary of the Roy-Fuller House

corresponds to the legal property boundary and comprises approximately 2.0 acres. All

significant and character defining features of the property are included within the legal

boundary.

The Long Acres Subdivision Historic District The Long Acres Subdivision is comprised of 23 residences that were developed

primarily between 1952 and 1954. The historic district is roughly bounded by Johnson

Ferry Road to the west, Abernathy Road to the north and east and just east and south

of Long Acres Drive (refer to Figure 7). The properties included within the historic

district are 210 Johnson Ferry Road, 215 Johnson Ferry Road, 223 Johnson Ferry

Road, 7 Abernathy Road, 19 Abernathy Road, 23 Abernathy Road, 33 Abernathy Road,

49 Abernathy Road, 65 Abernathy Road, 73 Abernathy Road, 6531 Long Acres Drive,

6540 Long Acres Drive, 6551 Long Acres Drive, 6552 Long Acres Drive, 6563 Long

Acres Drive, 6564 Long Acres Drive, 6569 Long Acres Drive, 6577 Long Acres Drive,

6589 Long Acres Drive, 6590 Long Acres Drive, 6597 Long Acres Drive, and 6600 Long

Acres Drive.

According to Fulton County records, three of the properties within the subdivision

were constructed between 1955 and 1957. A plat of the proposed subdivision made in

1952 showed the subdivision divided into Block A and Block B, with Block A containing

14 lots along the northwestern portion of the subdivision and Block B containing 9 lots

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along the southeastern side. All of the residences in the subdivision are examples of

the 1950s Ranch style of architecture, except one property located at 49 Abernathy

Road. This property was reportedly constructed in 1957 and is an example of a Shed

style dwelling.

Most of the Ranch style dwellings within the district retain their original, long

rambling designs and many of the distinctive features that characterize this style of post

World War II architecture. Among the features noted are low-pitched hipped roofs with

integral carports, Chicago style windows, two-over-two metal horizontal type windows,

decorative metal porch supports, and large masonry chimneys. Virtually all of the

residences possess brick exterior walls.

The Shed style dwelling located at 49 Abernathy Road is also a good example of

its style. The Shed style is characterized by its use and combination of the shed roof

form in different and often opposing directions in order to produce an effect of colliding

geometric shapes. This example also features the use of ribbon and jalousie windows,

which were popular window treatments during the period of the 1950s through the

1960s.

Another import character defining feature of post World War II architecture is the

suburban landscape, which is clearly illustrated in this subdivision. The subdivision

typifies the suburban experience which is characterized by its moderately sized,

grassed front lawns with straight or curvilinear driveways and groupings of trees and

other plantings. The homes have larger and more private back yards, which often

include decks or patios for family gatherings.

The Long Acres Subdivision Historic District was recommended for listing in the

National Register under Criterion A and C as it possesses a local level of significance in

the areas of architecture, community planning, and landscape architecture. The district

also possesses a national level of significance in the areas of community planning and

landscape architecture. The Long Acres Subdivision Historic District is significant both

locally and nationally as an example of post World War II suburban development. It

also is significant for its collection of mostly intact, mid-twentieth century Ranch style

dwellings and for its relationship to the development of the suburban landscape.

40

As shown in Figure 7D, the eligible NRHP boundary for the Long Acres

Subdivision Historic District corresponds to the legal property boundaries of the 23

properties within the district and is the same as the original boundary of the Long Acres

Subdivision that was platted in 1952. The boundary comprises approximately 16.1

acres. All significant and character defining features of the property are included within

the legal boundary.

The Woodward House The Woodward House is a circa 1935 Colonial Revival style residence located at

84 Abernathy Road on the north side of Abernathy Road east of Long Acres Drive (refer

to Figure 7). The residence is a 2-story frame structure that is sided with asbestos

shingle siding and rests on a continuous brick foundation. Other features include one

original exterior end chimney, a second exterior end chimney constructed as part of a

side addition to the home prior to 1962, a side porch, which was enclosed in the early

1960s, six-over-six double-hung sash type windows, and an enclosed breezeway

connecting the side addition. The current property owner, who has owned the home

since 1962, noted that the side porch was enclosed during the 1960s and the

breezeway was enlarged connecting a side addition prior to 1962. Also sited on the

property is a log cabin that the property owner moved from its original location in

Tennessee and restored, and the original well house located directly west of the

residence. The Woodward House was recommended for listing in the National Register

under Criterion C as it possesses a local level of significance in the area of architecture

as an example of a mid-twentieth century Colonial Revival style residence.

As shown in Figure 7E, the eligible NRHP boundary of the Woodward House

corresponds to the legal property boundary and comprises approximately 1.14 acres.

All significant and character defining features of the property are included within the

legal boundary.

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42

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The Eden House The Eden House is a circa 1944 Side Gabled Cottage with a side addition

located at 166 Abernathy Road on the north side of Abernathy Road west of Wright

Road (refer

to Figure 7). The residence is a frame structure that is sided with clapboard siding and

rests on a brick pier foundation with concrete block infill. Other features include a front

gabled portico and six-over-six double-hung sash type windows. The Eden House was

recommended eligible for listing in the National Register under Criterion C as it

possesses a local level of significance in the area of architecture as a representative

example of a Side Gabled Cottage house type.

As shown in Figure 7F, the eligible NRHP boundary of the Eden House

corresponds to the legal property boundary and comprises approximately 1.7 acres. All

significant and character defining features of the property are included within the legal

boundary.

b. Effects to Historic Resources

In concurrence with the SHPO, it has been determined that the proposed

projects would have a conditional no adverse effect to one historic resource, the

Abernathy Arts Center, a no adverse effect on two historic resources, the Sears House

and the Roy-Fuller House, and an adverse effect on three historic resources, the Long

Acres Subdivision Historic District, the Woodward House, and the Eden House. The

boundaries of the resources in relation to the proposed construction are shown in

Figures 8A – 8H.

Abernathy Arts Center A finding of Conditional No Adverse Effect has been determined for the

Abernathy Arts Center (refer to Figure 7 – Historic Resources Location Map). The

condition placed on the No Adverse determination is a stipulation placed in the

Memorandum of Agreement which states that the Abernathy Arts Center would be

contacted to determine if they would be interested in the development of a landscape

plan for the area in front of the Arts Center building that would be affected by the

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45

proposed project. Should the Arts Center accept the landscaping offer, a landscape

plan will be developed for this area, and the Arts Center and the Georgia SHPO would

be allowed a comment period in which to provide and recommend changes before

acceptance.

In the area of the resource, project implementation would consist of the widening

and realignment of Johnson Ferry and Abernathy Roads and the realignment of River

Valley Road. Approximately 0.05 acre of proposed right-of-way will be required from

within the eligible historic boundary of the property and approximately 0.05 acre will be

acquired as permanent construction easement for construction of the proposed project

(see Figure 8A – Right-of-way and Easement for the Abernathy Arts Center).

Project implementation would not result in a change in the character of the

property’s use. There are no direct or indirect effects anticipated to the Abernathy Arts

Center that would alter the character of the continued recreational use of the property.

The proposed improvements to Johnson Ferry Road and Abernathy Road would not

decrease the distance between the proposed roadways and the resource.

Project implementation would result in a change in the character of the property’s

physical features within the property’s setting that contribute to its historic significance.

However, this effect is not considered adverse. While approximately twenty feet of

right-of-way would be required from within the eligible historic boundary of the property

for construction of the proposed project, no significant landscape features within this

boundary are contributing to the eligibility of the resource would be damaged or

removed due to project implementation.

Project implementation would result in the introduction of visual elements that

diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

The resource is currently situated at the intersection of two, two-lane roadways and

consists of a view-shed comprised of moderate residential development most of which

is over fifty years old. Also, there is no substantial vegetation to serve as a buffer

between the resource and the existing roadways. As a result, the enlargement of the

existing transportation facilities would significantly diminish the visual character of the

property.

46

Figure 8A: Right-of-Way and Easement for the Abernathy Arts Center

47

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of atmospheric

elements that diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or

features. There would be no atmospheric effect to this property as a result of project

implementation. The project is consistent with the State Implementation Plan for air

quality in the region.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of audible elements

that diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

The existing noise level at the property is 75 dBA L10. The no-build noise level at the

property is 76 dBA L10. The build noise level (design year 2020) at the resource is 73

dBA L10. This three decibel decrease would occur over twenty years and would not be

perceptible to the human ear. While the build noise level exceeds the FHWA noise

abatement criterion of 70 dBA L10 established for residential land use, the existing

noise level at the property already exceeds this criterion. As a result, the proposed

project would not result in adverse audible effects to the property.

Project implementation would not indirectly affect the Abernathy Arts Center. No

change in traffic patterns would result from project implementation. No additional

access to the existing transportation facility would be provided and no existing access to

the facility would be removed. The proposed project would only increase the capacity

and operational adequacy of the existing roadway to meet current and anticipated future

demand.

Fulton County also proposes to design and construct a green space area along

Johnson Ferry and Abernathy Roads sometime after completion of the proposed road

project. However, the proposed design plan for this green space indicates that no land

from within the eligible historic boundary of the Abernathy Arts Center would be utilized

in the design or construction of this green space.

Sears House A finding of No Adverse Effect has been determined for the Sears House (refer to

Figure 7 – Historic Resources Location Map). In the area of the resource, project

implementation would consist of the widening and realignment of Johnson Ferry Road

and the obliteration of the existing pavement directly in front of the resource along the

48

Figure 8B - Construction Limits for the Sears House

GDOT Projects STP-9252(6) and STP-9250(1) P.I. #751300, 751310, Fulton County

N

Sears House

Roy Fuller House

Pavement along Johnson Ferry Road

Proposed realignment of Johnson Ferry Road

Driveway tie-ins to new roadway will be constructed at Sears House and Roy-Fuller House

49

portion of Johnson Ferry Road to be realigned (see Figure 8B – Construction Limits for

the Sears House). No additional right-of-way or permanent easement from this property

is anticipated.

Physical destruction of or damage to all or part of the property would not occur.

All widening, reconstruction, and obliteration of existing pavement would take place

outside the eligible historic boundary of the resource. As a result, no significant features

within the eligible boundary that contribute to the eligibility of the property would be

disturbed due to project construction.

Project implementation would not result in a change in the character of the

property’s use. There are no direct or indirect effects anticipated to the Sears House

that would alter the character of the continued residential use of the property. The

widening and reconstruction of Johnson Ferry Road would take place on the east side

of the existing road opposite the Sears House. As a result, the proposed improvements

to Johnson Ferry Road would not further encroach upon the eligible boundary of the

property, but instead, would result in an increased distance between the roadway and

the resource.

Project implementation would not result in a change in character of the property’s

physical features within the property’s setting that contribute to its historic significance.

All construction and ground-disturbing activity would take place outside the eligible

historic boundary of the resource. As a result, no significant landscape features

contributing to the eligibility of the resource within this boundary would be damaged or

removed due to project implementation.

Project implementation would result in the introduction of visual elements that

diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

However, this effect is not considered adverse. The resource is situated at an elevation

substantially lower than the existing roadway. There is also an adequate vegetative

buffer between the property and the existing roadway, and the proposed improvements

will take place on the opposite side of Johnson Ferry Road. As a result of these factors,

improvements to this roadway would not be visible from the property. While the

alignment of Johnson Ferry Road would result in the proposed roadway being moved

further away from the resource, the realignment will result in the removal of four historic

50

houses within the Long Acres Subdivision Historic District directly across from the

property. However, because these houses are also situated on an elevation

significantly lower than the existing roadway, they have not historically been in the view-

shed of the Sears House. As a result of these factors, enlarging and realigning the

existing transportation facility would not further diminish the visual character of the

property.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of atmospheric

elements that would diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic

characteristics or features. There would be no atmospheric effect to this property as a

result of project implementation.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of audible elements

that diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

The existing noise level at the property is 58 dBA L10. The no-build noise level at the

property is 59 dBA L10. The build noise level (design year 2020) at the resource is 61

dBA L10. This two decibel decrease would occur over twenty years and would not be

perceptible to the human ear. Also, the build noise level would not exceed the FHWA

noise abatement criterion of 70 dBA L10 established for residential land use.

Project implementation would not indirectly affect the Sears House. No change

in traffic patterns would result from project implementation. No additional access to the

existing transportation facility would be provided and no existing access to the facility

would be removed. The proposed project would only increase the capacity and

operational adequacy of the existing roadway to meet current and anticipated future

demand.

Fulton County also proposes to design and construct a green space area along

Johnson Ferry and Abernathy Roads sometime after completion of the proposed road

project. However, the proposed design plan for this green space indicates that no land

from within the eligible historic boundary of the Sears House would be utilized in the

design or construction of this green space.

51

Roy-Fuller House A finding of No Adverse Effect has been determined for the Roy-Fuller House

(refer to Figure 7 – Historic Resources Location Map). This finding was concurred with

by the Georgia SHPO during a technical assistance meeting between GDOT and the

SHPO on August 13, 2004. In the area of the resource, project implementation would

consist of the widening and realignment of Johnson Ferry Road to the east of the

property. Approximately 15 square feet of proposed right-of-way will be required from

within the eligible historic boundary of the property and approximately 1860 square feet

will be acquired as permanent construction easement for the construction of the

proposed project (see Figure 8C– Right-of-Way and Easement for the Roy-Fuller House

and Figure 8D – Close-up View of Right-of-Way and Easement from the Roy-Fuller

House).

Physical destruction of or damage to all or part of the property would occur.

However, this effect is not considered adverse. While a portion of the right-of-way

within the eligible historic boundary of the resource would be necessary for project

implementation, no significant landscape features on the property would be damaged or

removed, and the distance between the proposed roadway and the resource would not

decrease. As a result, no significant features within the eligible boundary that contribute

to the eligibility of the property would be disturbed due to project construction.

Project implementation would not result in a change in the character of the

property’s use. There are no direct or indirect effects that would alter the character of

the continued residential use of the Roy-Fuller House. The widening and reconstruction

of Johnson Ferry Road would take place on the east side of the existing road opposite

the Roy-Fuller House. As a result, the proposed improvements to Johnson Ferry Road

would not further encroach upon the eligible boundary of the property, but instead,

would result in an increased distance between the roadway and the resource.

Project implementation would result in a change in character of the property’s

physical features within the property’s setting that contribute to its historic significance.

However, this effect is not considered adverse. While a portion of the right-of-way

within the eligible historic boundary of the resource would be necessary for project

52

Figure 8C: Right-of-Way and Easement for the Roy-

Fuller House

53

Figure 8D: Close-up View of Right-of-Way and Easement for the Roy-Fuller House

54

implementation, no significant landscape features on the property would be damaged or

removed.

Project implementation would result in the introduction of visual elements that

diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

However, this effect is not considered adverse. The resource is situated at an elevation

substantially lower than the existing roadway. There is also an adequate vegetative

buffer between the property and the existing roadway, and the proposed improvements

will take place on the opposite side of Johnson Ferry Road. As a result of these factors,

improvements to this roadway would not be visible from the property. While the

alignment of Johnson Ferry Road would result in the proposed roadway being moved

further away from the resource, the realignment will result in the removal of four historic

houses within the Long Acres Subdivision Historic District directly across from the

property. However, because these houses are also situated on an elevation

significantly lower than the existing roadway, they have not historically been in the view-

shed of the Roy-Fuller House. As a result of these factors, enlarging and realigning the

existing transportation facility would not further diminish the visual character of the

property.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of atmospheric

elements that would diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic

characteristics or features. There would be no atmospheric effect to this property as a

result of project implementation.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of audible elements

that diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

The existing noise level at the property is 56 dBA L10. The no-build noise level at the

property is 57 dBA L10. The build noise level (design year 2020) at the resource is 58

dBA L10. This one decibel increase would occur over twenty years and would not be

perceptible to the human ear. Also, the build noise level would not exceed the FHWA

noise abatement criterion of 70 dBA L10 established for residential land use.

Project implementation would not indirectly affect the Roy-Fuller House. No

change in traffic patterns would result from project implementation. No additional

access to the existing transportation facility would be provided and no existing access to

55

the facility would be removed. The proposed project would only increase the capacity

and operational adequacy of the existing roadway to meet current and anticipated future

demand.

Fulton County also proposes to design and construct a green space area along

Johnson Ferry and Abernathy Roads sometime after completion of the proposed road

project. However, the proposed design plan for this green space indicates that no land

from within the eligible historic boundary of the Roy-Fuller House would be utilized in

the design or construction of this green space.

Long Acres Subdivision Historic District A finding of Adverse Effect has been determined for the Long Acres Subdivision

Historic District. In the area of the resource, project implementation would consist of the

widening and realignment of Johnson Ferry Road along the western boundary of the

district and the widening of Abernathy Road along the northern boundary of the district.

Approximately 2.74 acres of proposed right-of-way will be required from within the

eligible historic district boundary of the property and approximately 0.34 acres will be

acquired as permanent construction easement (see Figure 8E and 8F – Right-of-Way

and Easement for the Long Acres Subdivision Historic District).

Physical destruction of or damage to all or part of the property would occur. Nine

of the twenty-one contributing structures within the district would be removed as a result

of project implementation.

Project implementation would result in a change in the character of the property’s

use. Nine of the twenty-one contributing structures within the district would be removed

as a result of project implementation, thus impacting the character of their continued

residential use. However, the road project would not result in a change in the character

of the residential use of the remaining twelve properties within the district.

Project implementation would result in a change in the character of the property’s

physical features within the property’s setting that contribute to its historic significance.

Nine of the twenty-one contributing structures within the district, along with their

associated landscape features, would be removed as a result of project implementation.

56

Figure 8E: Right-of-Way and Easement for the Long Acres Subdivision Historic District

57

Figure 8F: Right-of-Way and Easement for the Long

Acres Subdivision Historic District

58

Project implementation would result in the introduction of visual elements that

diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic character or features. The

portion of Abernathy Road in the area of the resource consists of a two-lane roadway,

and there is no substantial vegetative buffer shielding the historic district from the

existing roadway. This roadway would be widened to four lanes and would result in the

removal of nine of the twenty-one contributing structures within the district. While

twelve of the contributing structures within this district would remain intact after project

implementation, the visual character of these properties would be substantially altered

by removing the nine demolished structures fronting Abernathy Road and replacing

them with a new, four-lane roadway.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of atmospheric

elements that would diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic

characteristics or features. There would be no atmospheric effect to this property as a

result of project implementation.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of audible elements

that diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

The existing noise level at the property is 64 dBA L10. The no-build noise level at the

property is 65 dBA L10. The build noise level (design year 2020) at the resource is 66

dBA L10. This one decibel increase would occur over twenty years and would not be

perceptible to the human ear. Also, the build noise level would not exceed the FHWA

noise abatement criterion of 70 dBA L10 established for residential land use.

Project implementation would not indirectly affect the Long Acres Subdivision

Historic District. No change in traffic patterns would result from project implementation.

No additional access to the existing transportation facility would be provided and no

existing access to the facility would be removed. The proposed project would only

increase the capacity and operational adequacy of the existing roadway to meet current

and anticipated future demand.

Fulton County also proposes to design and construct a green space area along

Johnson Ferry and Abernathy Roads sometime after completion of the proposed road

project. As a result, the proposed design plan for this green space indicates that

approximately eleven of the 23 structures within the Long Acres Subdivision Historic

59

District would be demolished as a result of the proposed transportation project. Nine of

the eleven properties lining Abernathy Road would be used as land for the green space

project. Two of these eleven properties will be used as right-of-way for the relocation

and realignment of Johnson Ferry Road. The remaining twelve properties located

within the historic district boundary would remain intact after construction of the

proposed green space.

Woodward House

A finding of Adverse Effect is anticipated for the Woodward House. In the area of

the resource, project implementation would consist of the widening of Abernathy Road

from two lanes to four lanes. Approximately 0.1245 acre of proposed right-of-way will

be required from within the eligible historic boundary of the property and approximately

1,177 square feet will be acquired as permanent construction easement (see Figure 8G

– Right-of-Way and Easement for the Woodward House).

Physical destruction of or damage to all or part of the property would occur. A

portion of the widening of Abernathy Road would require approximately 30 feet of land

within the eligible historic boundary of the property. This widening would result in the

removal of landscape features that are recognized as contributing elements to the

property’s National Register eligibility.

Project implementation would not result in a change in the character of the

property’s use. There are no direct effects anticipated to the Woodward House that

would alter the character of the continued residential use of the property. The current

distance between the resource and the existing edge of pavement along Abernathy

Road is approximately 150 feet. The approximate distance between the resource and

the proposed edge of pavement is approximately 120 feet, resulting in a decreased

distance of approximately 20 percent. Despite this decrease in distance, the residential

use of the property could still be maintained as substantial yard space between the

resource and the edge of pavement.

Project implementation would result in a change in the character of the property’s

physical features within the property’s setting that contribute to its historic significance.

A portion of the widening of Abernathy Road would require approximately 30 feet of

60

Figure 8G: Right-of-Way and Easement for the Woodward House

61

land within the eligible historic boundary of the property. This widening would result in

the removal of a portion of the property’s grassed lawn that is recognized as a

contributing element to the property’s National Register eligibility.

Project implementation would result in the introduction of visual elements that

diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

The portion of Abernathy Road in the area of the resource consists of a two-lane

roadway, and there is no substantial vegetative buffer shielding the resource from the

existing road. This roadway would be widened to four lanes, two in each direction, and

separated by a 32-foot raised median. Because there is no substantial vegetative buffer

shielding the resource from the existing roadway, and because the area immediately

surrounding the resource is not comprised of dense modern residential or commercial

development, enlargement of the existing transportation facility would compromise the

visual character of the property.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of atmospheric

elements that would diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic

characteristics or features. There would be no atmospheric effect to this property as a

result of project implementation.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of audible elements

that diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

The existing noise level at the property is 67 dBA L10. The no-build noise level at the

property is 68 dBA L10. The build noise level (design year 2020) at the resource is 69

dBA L10. This two decibel increase would occur over twenty years and would not be

perceptible to the human ear. Also, the build noise level would not exceed the FHWA

noise abatement criterion of 70 dBA L10 established for residential land use.

Project implementation would not indirectly affect the Woodward House. No

change in traffic patterns would result from project implementation. No additional

access to the existing transportation facility would be provided and no existing access to

the facility would be removed. The proposed project would only increase the capacity

and operational adequacy of the existing roadway to meet current and anticipated future

demand.

62

Also, while Fulton County proposes to design and construct a green space area

along Johnson Ferry and Abernathy Road sometime after completion of the proposed

road project, the proposed design plan for this green space indicates that the

Woodward House and the associated log cabin on the property would remain intact and

would be utilized as a Community Center for the surrounding neighborhoods.

Eden House A finding of Adverse Effect is anticipated for the Eden House. In the area of the

resource, project implementation would consist of the widening of Abernathy Road from

two lanes to four lanes. Approximately 0.06 acre of proposed right-of-way will be

required from within the eligible historic boundary of the property and approximately 700

square feet will be acquired as permanent construction easement (see Figure 8H –

Right-of-Way and Easement for the Eden House).

Physical destruction of or damage to all or part of the property would occur. A

portion of the widening of Abernathy Road would require approximately 30 feet of land

within the eligible historic boundary of the property. This widening would result in the

removal of landscape features that are recognized as contributing elements to the

property’s National Register eligibility.

Project implementation would not result in a change in the character of the

property’s use. There are no direct or indirect effects anticipated to the Eden House

that would alter the character of the continued residential use of the property. The

current distance between the resource and the existing edge of pavement along

Abernathy Road is approximately 80 feet. The approximate distance between the

resource and the proposed edge of pavement is approximately 60 feet, resulting in a

decreased distance of approximately 25 percent. Despite this decrease in distance, the

residential use of the property could still be maintained as substantial yard space

between the resource and the edge of pavement.

Project implementation would result in a change in the character of the

property’s physical features within the property’s setting that contribute to its historic

significance. A portion of the widening of Abernathy Road would require approximately

30 feet of land within the eligible historic boundary of the property. This widening would

63

Figure 8H: Right-of-Way and Easement for the Eden House

64

result in the removal of a portion of the property’s grassed lawn that is recognized as a

contributing element to the property’s National Register eligibility.

Project implementation would result in the introduction of visual elements that

diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

The portion of Abernathy Road in the area of the resource consists of a two-lane

roadway, and there is no substantial vegetative buffer shielding the resource from the

existing road. This roadway would be widened to four lanes, two in each direction, and

separated by a 32-foot raised median. Because there is no substantial vegetative buffer

shielding the resource from the existing roadway, and because the area immediately

surrounding the resource is not comprised of dense modern residential or commercial

development, enlargement of the existing transportation facility would compromise the

visual character of the property.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of atmospheric

elements that would diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic

characteristics or features. There would be no atmospheric effect to this property as a

result of project implementation.

Project implementation would not result in the introduction of audible elements

that diminish the integrity of the property’s significant historic characteristics or features.

The existing noise level at the property is 67 dBA L10. The no-build noise level at the

property is 68 dBA L10. The build noise level (design year 2020) at the resource is 69

dBA L10. This two decibel increase would occur over twenty years and would not be

perceptible to the human ear. Also, the build noise level would not exceed the FHWA

noise abatement criterion of 70 dBA L10 established for residential land use.

Project implementation would not indirectly affect the Eden House. No change in

traffic patterns would result from project implementation. No additional access to the

existing transportation facility would be provided and no existing access to the facility

would be removed. The proposed project would only increase the capacity and

operational adequacy of the existing roadway to meet current and anticipated future

demand.

However, Fulton County proposes to design and construct a green space area

along Johnson Ferry and Abernathy Road sometime after completion of the proposed

65

road project. As a result, the proposed design plan for this green space indicates that

the Eden House would be demolished, and the land occupied by the property would be

incorporated into the final design of the green space project.

SUMMARY Project implementation would result in a finding of Conditional No Adverse Effect

for the Abernathy Arts Center, a finding of No Adverse Effect for the Sears House and

Roy-Fuller House, and a finding of Adverse Effect for the Long Acres Subdivision

Historic District, Woodward House, and Eden House (see Table 4 – Summary of Effects

to Historic Resources).