National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers

"Framing historic preservation review as responsible for project challenges is a bit like blaming a building inspector for identifying a cracked foundation. The very purpose of consultation is to surface issues early in the process — helping avoid unnecessary harm to historic places and more costly delays later." ~Erik Hein, Executive Director, NCSHPO

The conversation about permitting efficiency should start with one simple reality: most Section 106 reviews move forward without adverse effects or mitigation agreements.

The focus is often on the small number of complex projects, not the thousands of routine reviews completed each year by agencies, applicants, SHPOs, THPOs, Tribes, and other consulting parties.

If the goal is greater predictability, one of the most effective steps Congress could take is ensuring SHPOs and THPOs have the resources to meet this workload.

Read more in comments⬇️


National Trust for Historic Preservation
Preservation Action
National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers
ACHP - Advisory Council on Historic Preservation

Tune in to the ACHP - Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Summer Business Meeting beginning at 9 am this morning, livestreaming on FB and YouTube.

The agenda outlines ACHP updates on budget, staffing, operations, Council organization, Section 106, Program Alternatives, review of legislative agenda, housing and historic preservation, and Preserve America Executive Order Section 3 guidance.

The streamlining tool Congress is looking for already exists.

As new approaches are considered to accelerate infrastructure projects, it's worth asking whether the most effective solution is already being used nationwide. Statewide Programmatic Agreements have spent decades helping transportation agencies deliver projects efficiently while meeting federal historic preservation responsibilities.

Read why strengthening existing tools may be a better path than creating new ones. ⬇️ link in comments

A rainy day in DC can't keep us from chatting historic preservation!

Elizabeth Tune, Deputy SHPO for Virginia Department of Historic Resources explained the vital work of SHPOs across the country.

National Trust for Historic Preservation

Last week NCSHPO delivered written testimony to the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, urging robust investment in the Historic Preservation Fund for FY 2027 — Calling for $250 million to support State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs), (THPOs), investments in preservation technology, and funding for preservation grant programs that protect and activate historic places nationwide.

Read more, link in comments.

NCSHPO votes "NO" --- In opposition to the proposed ACHP - Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Program Comment for Army Warfighting Readiness and Associated Infrastructure.

NCSHPO urges fellow councilmembers to do the same, so the Council may consider thoughtful alternative and lawful approaches to stewardship of our nations historic resources.

READ MORE --> LINK IN COMMENTS

A huge thank you to Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth for continually showing up for Historic Preservation!

The Congresswoman's participation in National Historic Preservation Advocacy Week sends a powerful message: the places that tell America’s story matter.

Thank you for championing the programs that promote our nation’s historic places!

Maryland Historical Trust
Preservation Maryland

Let's go!!!

Kicking off 2026 National Historic Preservation Advocacy Week!

Preservation Action