Historic Preservation
Historic Preservation
We maintain a historic preservationist on staff and through a contract
with the Tennessee Historical Commission, which receives federal funds
from the Department of the Interior and National Park Service. SCTDD
provides technical assistance with historic preservation projects, National Register of Historic Places, promoting preservation tax incentives, preparing applications for Federal Preservation Grants, promoting the Certified Local Government program, assisting with historic surveys, and providing documentation for Section 106 reviews. Securing our heritage for future generations through the preservation of important architectural and historical sites is another important service of the SCTDD.
National Register of Historic Places:
The nation’s official listing of historic places that are worthy of being preserved is called the National Register of Historic Places. Buildings districts, sites, structures, and objects that are determined to be significant with respect to history, architecture, archeology, engineering, or culture, may be placed on this growing list. SCTDD assists with compiling and preparing required documentation, maps, and photographs to develop nominations, which are then considered by the State Review Board.
For more information, please click here.
Preservation Tax Incentives:
The owner of an income-producing, historic building is eligible to receive a federal tax credit of up to 20% of the cost of renovation if they restore the building in accordance with the National Park Service’s standards. SCTDD promotes awareness of this program and provides information concerning eligibility and the Secretary of the Interior’s guidelines for rehabilitation and restoration.
Federal Preservation Grants:
Each year, federal funds are made available to each state for local historic preservation projects. These funds may be used for up to 60% of the cost of architectural, archeological, or historic surveys; preservation planning studies; preparation of National Register nominations; restoration planning or restoration of historic properties. Project proposals from throughout Tennessee must compete for funding. SCTDD assists with the preparation and submission of applications.
Certified Local Government Program:
Local governments that meet certain criteria, including the establishment of a historic zoning commission and passing a historic preservation ordinance, receive the designation of “Certified local Government” or CLG. With this designation, a local government is eligible to receive technical assistance from the staff of the Tennessee Historical Commission, and their chances of being selected for Federal Preservation Grant funding are improved. SCTDD works with historic zoning commissions, promotes training opportunities, and provides information concerning the CLG program. For an interactive map of Tennessee’s CLGs and Main Streets, click here.
Historic Surveys:
Local historic resources that are fifty years old or older are documented through a comprehensive written and photographic record compiled in county surveys. The staff of the Tennessee Historical Commission is working to have county survey data available on the internet. SCTDD assists the staff by serving as a local resource and helping to fill “information gaps” that may be discovered.
Section 106 Reviews:
When federal funds are used for construction projects, a review must be conducted to determine if historic properties will be affected and if so, the extent of the effect. The process is known as a Section 106 Review. SCTDD gathers the information that is required, consults with interested parties, and submits all materials and comments to the Tennessee Historical Commission.
