Metric conducted a Phase Ib Archaeological and Geophysical Survey of the south portion of the Indiana University Health (IU Health) Campus in Indianapolis. This area, spanning 45.3 acres, is located within an urban setting that has seen multiple redevelopments and historically housed various residential and commercial properties dating back to the mid-nineteenth century.

The survey was initiated as a risk management and planning tool by IU Health to explore the potential for intact archaeological remains prior to construction associated with the campus’ redevelopment. The survey workplan, approved by the Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (DHPA), consisted of archival research, geophysical survey, ground-truthing via archaeological deep trenching, and developing management recommendations regarding the results of
the investigation.

The overall project area was divided into two parcels for examination and cost purposes. The geophysical survey identified numerous ground-penetrating radar (GPR) anomalous areas, interpreted as potential locations of basements, concrete slabs, foundations, or areas of debris. Four trenches were excavated to investigate these anomalies and explore the potential for intact subsurface features. Artifacts were recovered dating from the mid nineteenth to late twentieth centuries.

Despite the findings, it was determined unlikely that further investigation at the site would provide significant archaeological data due to the small assemblage size, questionable provenience of the artifacts and brick rubble, and lack of intact archaeological features. The team remained on call in case construction encountered any buried archaeological features or had questions of recovered items.

The team faced challenges in coordinating their work with the preconstruction schedule and coordination with site access once the construction started. To overcome these challenges, the project manager maintained good communication with the client to stay aware of project activities in the area. Additionally, Metric scientists assisted with the Sampling Analysis Plan (SAP) Implementation activities prior to clearing and site preparation of the project area. The subsurface investigation field activities included maintenance of site controls, logging soils, screening and collecting soil samples.