Protecting Historic Properties

ADVISORY COUNCIL ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Protecting Historic Properties:

A CITIZEN’S GUIDE TO SECTION 106 REVIEW

 

 

About the ACHP

The mission of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) is to promote the preservation, enhancement, and productive use of the nation's historic resources and advise the President and Congress on national historic preservation policy.

The ACHP, an independent federal agency, also provides a forum for influencing federal activities, programs, and policies that affect historic properties. In addition, the ACHP has a key role in carrying out the Preserve America Program.

The 23-member council is supported by a professional staff in Washington, D.C. For more information contact:

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 803
Washington, D.C. 20004
[phone]
www.achp.gov

Introduction

Proud of your heritage? Value the places that refl ect your community’s history? You should know about Section 106 review, an important tool you can use to infl uence federal decisions regarding historic properties. By law, you have a voice when a project involving federal action, approval, or funding may affect properties that qualify for the National Register of Historic Places, the nation’s official list of historic properties.

This guide from the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP), the agency charged with historic preservation leadership within federal government, explains how your voice can be heard.

Each year, the federal government is involved with many projects that affect historic properties. For example, the Federal Highway Administration works with states on road improvements, the Department of Housing and Urban Development grants funds to cities to rebuild communities, and the General Services Administration builds and leases federal office space.

Agencies like the Forest Service, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Defense make decisions daily about the management of federal buildings, parks, forests, and lands. These decisions may affect historic properties, including those that are of traditional religious and cultural signifi cance to federally recognized Indian tribes and Native Hawaiian organizations.

Projects with less obvious federal involvement can also have repercussions on historic properties. For example, the construction of a boat dock or a housing development that affects wetlands may also impact fragile archaeological sites and require a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit. Likewise, the construction of a cellular tower may require a license from the Federal Communications Commission and might compromise historic or culturally significant landscapes or properties valued by Indian tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations for traditional religious and cultural practices.

These and other projects with federal involvement can harm historic properties. The Section 106 review process gives you the opportunity to alert the federal government to the historic properties you value and influence decisions about projects that affect them.

What is Section 106 review?

In the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA), Congress established a comprehensive program to preserve the historical and cultural foundations of the national as a living part of community life. Section 106 of the NHPA is cruicial to that program because it requires consideration of historic preservation in the multitude of projects with federal involvement that take place across the national every day.

Section 106 requires federal agencies to consider the effects of projects they carry out, approve, or fund on historic properties. Additionally, federal agencies must provide the ACHP an opportunity to comment on such project prior to the agency's decision on them.

Section 106 review encourages, but does not mandate, preservation. Sometimes there is no way for a needed project to proceed without harming historic properties. Section 106 review does ensure that preservation values are factored into federal agency planning and decisions. Because of Section 106, federal agencies must assume responsibility for the consequences of the projects they carry out, approve, or fund on historic properties and be publicly accountable for their decisions.

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Understanding Section 106 Review

Regulations issued by the ACHP spell out the Section 106 review process, specifying actions federal agencies must take to meet their legal obligations. The regulations are published in the Code of Federal Regulations at 36 CFR Part 800,“Protection of Historic Properties,” and can be found on the ACHP’s Web site at www.achp.gov.

Federal agencies are responsible for initiating Section 106 review, most of which takes place between the agency and state and tribal or Native Hawaiian organization officials. Appointed by the governor, the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) coordinates the state’s historic preservation program and consults with agencies during Section 106 review.
Agencies also consult with offcials of federally recognized Indian tribes when the projects have the potential to affect historic properties on tribal lands or historic properties of signifi cance to such tribes located offtribal lands. Some tribes have officially designated Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (THPOs), while others designate representatives to consult with agencies as needed. In Hawaii, agencies consult with Native Hawaiian organizations (NHOs) when historic properties of religious and cultural significance to them may be affected.

To successfully complete Section 106 review, federal agencies must do the following:

• Gather information to decide which properties in the area that may be affected by the project are listed, or are eligible for listing, in the National Register of Historic Places (referred to as “historic properties”);

• Determine how those historic properties might be affected;

• Explore measures to avoid or reduce harm (“adverse effect”) to historic properties;

• Reach agreement with the SHPO/THPO (and the ACHP in some cases) on such measures to resolve any adverse effects or, failing that, obtain advisory comments from the ACHP, which are sent to the head of the agency.

What are Historic Properties?

In the Section 106 process, a historic property is a prehistoric or historic district, site, building, structure, or object included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. This term includes artifacts, records, and remains that are related to and located within these National Register properties. The term also includes properties of traditional religious and cultural importance to an Indian tribe or Native Hawaiian organization, so long as that property also meets the criteria for listing in the National Register.

The National Register of Historic Places

The National Register of Historic Places is the nation’s official list of properties recognized for their signifi cance in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture. It is administered by the National Park Service, which is part of the Department of the Interior. The Secretary of the Interior has established the criteria for evaluating the eligibility of properties for the National Register. In short, the property must be significant, be of a certain age, and have integrity:

• Significance. Is the property associated with events, activities, or developments that were important in the past? With the lives of people who were historically important? With distinctive architectural history, landscape history, or engineering achievements? Does it have the potential to yield important information through archaeological investigation about our past?

• Age and Integrity. Is the property old enough to be considered historic (generally at least 50 years old) and does it still look much the way it did in the past?

During a Section 106 review, the federal agency evaluates properties against the National Register criteria and seeks the consensus of the SHPO/THPO/tribe regarding eligibility. A historic property need not be formally listed in the National Register in order to be considered under the Section 106 process. Simply coming to a consensus determination that a property is eligible for listing is adequate to move forward with Section 106 review. (For more information, visit the National Register Web site at (www.cr.nps.gov/nr).

When historic properties may be harmed, Section 106 review usually ends with a legally binding agreement that establishes how the federal agency will avoid, minimize, or mitigate the adverse effects. In the very few cases where this does not occur, the ACHP issues advisory comments to the head of the agency who must then consider these comments in making a final decision about whether the project will proceed.

Section 106 reviews ensure federal agencies fully consider historic preservation issues and the views of the public during project planning. Section 106 reviews do not mandate the approval or denial of projects.

 

Determining Federal Involvement

If you are concerned about a proposed project and wondering whether Section 106 applies, you should first determine whether the federal government is involved. Will a federal agency fund or carry out the project? Is a federal permit, license, or approval needed? Section 106 applies only if a federal agency is carrying out the project, approving it, or funding it, so confirming federal involvement is critical.

Sometimes federal involvement is obvious. Often, involvement is not immediately apparent. If you have a question, contact the project sponsor to obtain additional information and to inquire about federal involvement. All federal agencies have Web sites. Many list regional or local contacts and information on major projects. The SHPO/THPO/tribe, state or local planning commissions, or statewide historic preservation organizations may also have project information.

Once you have identified the responsible federal agency, write to the agency to request a project description and inquire about the status of project planning. Ask how the agency plans to comply with Section 106, and voice your concerns. Keep the SHPO/THPO/tribe advised of your interest and contacts with the federal agency.

Working with Federal Agencies

Throughout the Section 106 review process, federal agencies must consider the views of the public. This is particularly important when an agency is trying to identify historic properties that might be affected by a project and is considering ways to avoid, minimize, or mitigate harm to them.

Agencies must give the public a chance to learn about the project and provide their views. How agencies publicize projects depends on the nature and complexity of the particular project and the agency’s public involvement procedures.

Public meetings are often noted in local newspapers and on television and radio. A daily government publication, the Federal Register (available at many public libraries and online at www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/index.html), has notices concerning projects, including those being reviewed under NEPA. Federal agencies often use NEPA for purposes of public outreach under Section 106 review. Federal agencies also frequently contact local museums and historical societies directly to learn about historic properties and community concerns. In addition, organizations like the National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP) are actively engaged in a number of Section 106 consultations on projects around the country. The NTHP is a private, non-profit membership organization dedicated to saving historic places and revitalizing America’s communities. Organizations like the NTHP and your state and local historical societies and preservation interest groups can be valuable sources of information. Let them know of your interest.

When the agency provides you with information, let the agency know if you disagree with its findings regarding what properties are eligible for the National Register of Historic Places or how the proposed project may affect them. Tell the agency—in writing—about any important properties that you think have been overlooked or incorrectly evaluated. Be sure to provide documentation to support your views.

When the federal agency releases information about project alternatives under consideration, make it aware of the options you believe would be most beneficial. To support alternatives that would preserve historic properties, be prepared to discuss costs and how well your preferred alternatives would meet project needs. Sharing success stories about the treatment or reuse of similar resources can also be helpful.

Applicants for federal assistance or permits, and their consultants, often undertake research and analyses on behalf of a federal agency. Be prepared to make your interests and views known to them, as well. But remember the federal agency is ultimately responsible for completing Section 106 review, so make sure you also convey your concerns directly to it.

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Influencing Project Outcomes

In addition to seeking the views of the public, federal agencies must actively consult with certain organizations and individuals during review. This interactive consultation is at the heart of Section 106 review.

Consultation does not mandate a specific outcome. Rather, it is the process of seeking, discussing, and considering the views of consulting parties about how project effects on historic properties should be handled.

To influence project outcomes, you may work through the consulting parties, particularly those who represent your interests. For instance, if you live within the local jurisdiction where a project is taking place, make sure to express your views on historic preservation issues to the local government officials who participate in consultation.

You or your organization may want to take a more active role in Section 106 review, especially if you have a legal or economic interest in the project or the affected properties. You might also have an interest in the effects of the project as an individual, a business owner, or a member of a neighborhood association, preservation group, or other organization. Under these circumstances, you or your organization may write to the federal agency asking to become a consulting party.

When requesting consulting party status, explain in a letter to the federal agency why you believe your participation would be important to successful resolution. Since the SHPO/THPO or tribe will assist the federal agency in deciding who will participate in the consultation, be sure to provide the SHPO/ THPO or tribe with a copy of your letter. Make sure to emphasize your relationship with the project and demonstrate how your connection will inform the agency’s decision making.

If you are denied consulting party status, you may ask the ACHP to review the denial and make recommendations to the federal agency regarding your participation. However, the federal agency makes the ultimate decision on the matter.

Consulting party status entitles you to share your views, receive and review pertinent information, offer ideas, and consider possible solutions together with the federal agency and other consulting parties. It is up to you to decide how actively you want to participate in consultation.

How the ACHP Can Help

Under Section 106 review, most harmful effects are addressed successfully by the federal agency and the consulting parties without participation by the ACHP. So, your first points of contact should always be the federal agency and/or the SHPO/THPO.

When there is significant public controversy, or if the project will have substantial effects on important historic properties, the ACHP may elect to participate directly in the consultation. The ACHP may also get involved if important policy questions are raised, procedural problems arise, or if there are issues of concern to Indian tribes or Native Hawaiian organizations.

Whether or not the ACHP becomes involved in consultation, you may contact the ACHP to express your views or to request guidance, advice, or technical assistance. Regardless of the scale of the project or the magnitude of its effects, the ACHP is available to assist with dispute resolution and advise on the Section 106 review process.

If you cannot resolve disagreements with the federal agency regarding which historic properties are affected by a project or how they will be impacted, contact the ACHP. The ACHP may then advise the federal agency to reconsider its findings.

When requesting consulting party status, explain in a letter to the federal agency why you believe your participation would be important to successful resolution. Since the SHPO/THPO or tribe will assist the federal agency in deciding who will participate in the consultation, be sure to provide the SHPO/ THPO or tribe with a copy of your letter. Make sure to emphasize your relationship with the project and demonstrate how your connection will inform the agency’s decision making.

If you are denied consulting party status, you may ask the ACHP to review the denial and make recommendations to the federal agency regarding your participation. However, the federal agency makes the ultimate decision on the matter.

Consulting party status entitles you to share your views, receive and review pertinent information, offer ideas, and consider possible solutions together with the federal agency and other consulting parties. It is up to you to decide how actively you want to participate in consultation.

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Influencing Project Outcomes

In addition to seeking the views of the public, federal agencies must actively consult with certain organizations and individuals during review. This interactive consultation is at the heart of Section 106 review.

Consultation does not mandate a specific outcome. Rather, it is the process of seeking, discussing, and considering the views of consulting parties about how project effects on historic properties should be handled.

To influence project outcomes, you may work through the consulting parties, particularly those who represent your interests. For instance, if you live within the local jurisdiction where a project is taking place, make sure to express your views on historic preservation issues to the local government officials who participate in consultation.

You or your organization may want to take a more active role in Section 106 review, especially if you have a legal or economic interest in the project or the affected properties. You might also have an interest in the effects of the project as an individual, a business owner, or a member of a neighborhood association, preservation group, or other organization. Under these circumstances, you or your organization may write to the federal agency asking to become a consulting party.

When Agencies Don’t Follow the Rules

A federal agency must conclude Section 106 review before making a decision to approve a project, or fund or issue a permit that may affect a historic property. Agencies should not make obligations or take other actions that would preclude consideration of the full range of alternatives to avoid or minimize harm to historic properties before Section 106 review is complete.

If the agency acts without properly completing Section 106 review, the ACHP can issue a finding that the agency has prevented meaningful review of the project. This means that, in the ACHP’s opinion, the agency has failed to comply with Section 106 and therefore has not met the requirements of federal law.

A vigilant public helps ensure federal agencies comply fully with Section 106. In response to requests, the ACHP can investigate questionable actions and advise agencies to take corrective action. As a last resort, preservation groups or individuals can litigate in order to enforce Section 106.

If you are involved in a project and it seems to be getting off track, contact the agency to voice your concern. Call the SHPO or THPO to make sure they understand the issue. Call the ACHP if you feel your concerns have not been heard.

Following Through

After agreements are signed, the public may still play a role in the Section 106 process by keeping abreast of the agreements that were signed and making sure they are properly carried out. The public may also request status reports from the agency.

Designed to accommodate project needs and historic values, Section 106 review relies on strong public participation. Section 106 review provides the public with an opportunity to influence how projects with federal involvement aff ect historic properties. By keeping informed of federal involvement, participating in consultation, and knowing when and whom to ask for help, you can play an active role in deciding the future of historic properties in your community.

Section 106 review gives you a chance to weigh in when projects with federal involvement may affect historic properties you care about. Seize that chance, and make a difference!

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Contact Information

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation

Office of Federal Agency Programs
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 803
Washington, D.C. 20004
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Web site: www.achp.gov
The ACHP’s Web site includes more information about working with Section 106 and contact information for federal agencies, SHPOs, and THPOs.

National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers

P.O. Box 19189
Washington, D.C. 20036-9189
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Web site: www.nathpo.org

National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers

444 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 342
Washington, D.C. 20001
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web site: www.ncshpo.org
For the SHPO in your state, see www.ncshpo.org/fi nd/index.htm

National Park Service

Heritage Preservation Services
1849 C Street, NW (2255)
Washington, D.C. 20240
E-mail: [e-mail]
Web site: www.nps.gov/history/hps

National Register of Historic Places

1201 Eye Street, NW (2280)
Washington, D.C. 20005
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Web site: www.nps.gov/history/nr

National Trust for Historic Preservation

1785 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20036-2117
Phone: [phone] or [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Web site: www.preservationnation.org
The National Trust has regional offices in San Francisco, Denver, Fort Worth, Chicago, Boston, and Charleston, as well as field offices in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs

711 Kapi`olani Boulevard, Suite 500
Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Web site: www.oha.org

TO LEARN MORE

For detailed information about the ACHP, Section 106 review process, and our other activities, visit us at www.achp.gov or contact us at:
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 803
Washington, D.C. 20004
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]

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