PUBLIC NOTICE: National Historic Preservation Act Public Comment Solicitation for Project #657-507, Correct Seismic Deficiencies Bldg. 14

PUBLIC NOTICE: National Historic Preservation Act Public Comment Solicitation for Project #657-507, Correct Seismic Deficiencies Bldg. 14

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) proposes to demolish its existing steam generation plant (Bldg. 14) on campus (at 37°43’26” N Lat. / 88°57’08” W Long.) and construct a new plant approximately 150’ to the north-northeast (at 37°43’27” N Lat. / 88°57’07” W Long.).  The new boiler plant construction will also include a site development of approximately 1.4 acres for vehicle access, parking, utilities and other amenities.  The purpose of this project is to create a new seismically resilient structure to house this mission-critical campus utility.

In accordance with 36 CFR § 800.3(a), VA has determined that the project is a federal action that meets the definition of an undertaking per 36 CFR § 800.16(y) and is the type of activity that has the potential to cause effects on historic properties, and therefore subject to review under 54 USC § 306108 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), as amended, and its implementing regulations (36 CFR Part 800 – Protection of Historic Properties), collectively “Section 106.”

Through this notice, VA is providing the public with information about the undertaking and seeking public comment and input about the undertaking’s effects on historic properties pursuant to 36 CFR § 800.2(d). This notice does not serve as an invitation to consult under Section 106; it is solely to seek and consider the views of the public. VA is initiating its Section 106 review and inviting consulting parties to participate via separate communication.

If you would like to comment on the proposed project at this time, please contact Joshua Clay at Joshua.clay@va.gov or and reference “Project #657-507, Correct Seismic Deficiencies Bldg. 14.” VA greatly appreciates your participation in this matter and asks that you provide comments on the proposed project by September 9, 2025.