Home Return to Table of Contents: Sources of Financial Assistance for Historic Preservation Projects Federal Financial Assistance: Introduction

Introduction

The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 established the foundation for a partnership between the Federal Government and States, Indian tribes, local governments, and private organizations and individuals to promote the preservation of America's historic resources.

A mutually supportive network of governmental bodies and organizations has evolved that provides direct and indirect support to the myriad of preservation projects undertaken each year. Federal funds for the national historic preservation program support the work of State and Tribal Historic Preservation Offices, Certified Local Governments, National Park Service (NPS) preservation programs, and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.

Beyond helping to maintain the infrastructure of the national preservation program, the Federal Government also provides significant support for preservation through a variety of channels. NPS, the Department of Transportation, and the Department of Agriculture administer programs targeted to historic preservation projects.

There are also many other sources of Federal financial assistance which, while not earmarked specifically for historic preservation, can contribute substantially to such efforts. In addition, there are Federal tax incentives to spur private investment in historic preservation.

The Federal Government also spends millions of dollars each year for individual agency preservation activities, including funding preservation of federally owned historic properties.

Updated May 16, 2008

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