Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act

Over the past few years there has been no shortage of media coverage of the State Ports Authority’s (SPA) proposed expansion of Union Pier Terminal and its cruise operations, as well as the resultant litigation. Followers of the issue have undoubtedly come across the term “Section 106 Review” in the ongoing narrative, but what is it exactly? 

Though it is an arcane process, Section 106 Review is a crucial defense mechanism for the nation’s historic and cultural resources, because it requires consideration of the effects of projects that federal agencies carry out, approve, or fund on historic properties. In this sense, “historic properties” are those that are deemed eligible for the NRHP or listed on the NRHP individually or as part of a district. However, Section 106 Review is a more complicated process than just that.

Fortunately, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) recently updated its publication, Protecting Historic Properties: A Citizen’s Guide to Section 106  Review, which offers a wealth of information in clear terms.  We encourage all who are interested in better understanding a process important to the preservation of Charleston’s architectural heritage to become familiar with the publication by clicking here.

By Tim Condo, Manager of Preservation Initiatives

Image courtesy of LS3P via charlestonbusiness.com