Last Updated: Tuesday, April 15, 2008 11:20 AM

Exhibit 2.5 Sample Memo to File for Screened Undertakings

Exhibit 2.5 PDF version here.

Dear Chris:

I have conducted a review of the cultural resources sensitivity of the above referenced undertaking based on the materials you have provided (memo and plan sheets from Alan Yee, dated October 18, 2003). The proposed undertaking includes the following activities:

1)      installation of a light pole in each of the four corners of the intersection, each requiring the excavation of a hole measuring approximately 6’ x 6’ in width by 8’ deep;

2)      installation of 5 signposts at different locations at the intersection, each requiring two holes measuring approximately 1’ x 1’ in width and 4’ in depth; and

3)      a total of approximately 30 feet of trenching (approximately 2’ in width by 3’ in depth) to connect the new signal lights to existing utilities.

The cultural resources review included an information center records search, a search of District 6 files, and a visit to the project location on January 5, 2004. This review indicated that:

A.     there are no known potential historic properties in the undertaking’s Area of Potential Effects (APE);

B.     the location is low sensitivity for archaeological resources;

C.     the intersection and surrounding areas have been heavily disturbed and re-contoured during previous construction activities; and (4) the buildings located at the intersection are all of new construction, and include a gas station, a hotel, and two fast-food restaurants.

Based on this review and in my capacity of Caltrans certified Professionally Qualified Staff (PQS) in Archaeology at Lead Archaeological Surveyor or above, I have determined that the undertaking has virtually no potential to affect historic properties, and is exempt from further review pursuant to Stipulation VII and Attachment 2 (Class #20) of the Programmatic Agreement among the Federal Highway Administration, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the California State Historic Preservation Officer, and the California Department of Transportation Regarding Compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (Section 106 PA).

Please note that this assessment could change if there are any changes to the proposed activities, or if additional locations are added. If there are any such changes to the proposed undertaking, an additional review by the cultural resources unit will be required.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at (916) 653-1796.

Sincerely,

John Sharp

Associate Environmental Planner (Archaeology)

Cultural and Community Studies Office, Cultural Studies Branch B

Caltrans Headquarters, Sacramento