RiverLands accessible trail’s grant condition required a 30-foot cemetery buffer

An archaeological survey reviewed by the Chattahoochee Hills Parks Commission on July 14 found no ground-penetrating-radar evidence resembling graves in the area within 30 feet of the Varner Family Cemetery boundary closest to the proposed Wheel Beautiful Scenic Universal Access Trail. The draft minutes describe findings for that surveyed strip, not the entire cemetery.

The trail’s grant condition required a 30-foot environmentally sensitive buffer along the portion of the cemetery bordering the proposed alignment, with no project activities inside it. A qualified archaeologist was to identify the buffer, which would be marked by orange barrier fencing. The minutes say reimbursement for the survey would be requested from Recreational Trails Program funds; they do not record payment.

Parks Director Darold Wendlandt said he would arrange the fencing installation and coordinate with contractor Broadstreet Contract Services, Inc. throughout trail construction. The July record documents survey findings and intended safeguards, not verification of completed trail work.