Contributed by: Pasadena Heritage
Organization: Pasadena Heritage
Dated Posted: July 26, 2026
Website: Visit External Site

When the Colorado Street Bridge underwent seismic rehabilitation, Section 106 review helped ensure its historic character was preserved while allowing critical safety improvements—a reminder of why this federal preservation process matters.

Historic preservation is facing one of its most significant challenges in decades.

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) is considering sweeping changes to the regulations that implement Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, one of the nation's most important safeguards for historic and cultural resources. A vote is currently scheduled for July 24.

Although Section 106 may not be familiar to everyone, it has long ensured that communities, preservation organizations, Tribal Nations, local governments, and the public have a voice when federally funded or federally permitted projects have the potential to affect historic places.

What Could Change?

The proposed revisions would substantially reduce oversight and public participation by:

• Limiting opportunities for public review and input.
• Reducing consultation with State Historic Preservation Offices, Tribal Nations, and local governments.
• Allowing federal agencies greater discretion to determine whether historic resources are present and whether impacts require review.
• Narrowing the range of historic and cultural resources that receive consideration.
• Expanding exemptions that could allow entire categories of federal projects to move forward without meaningful historic preservation review.

Why This Matters

For nearly sixty years, Section 106 has helped communities identify significant historic resources, consider alternatives, and minimize unnecessary damage to places that define our shared history.

Weakening these protections shifts decisions away from local communities and preservation professionals while reducing transparency and accountability. Once a historic resource is lost, it cannot be replaced.

How You Can Help

We encourage you to contact the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation before July 24 and urge them to postpone the vote or, at a minimum, ensure a thorough and transparent public comment process before any changes are finalized.

Email: achp@achp.gov

Phone: (202) 517-0200

When reaching out, reference the proposed revisions to 36 CFR Part 800 and ask that your comments be shared with the full Council before the scheduled vote.

Preservation has always depended on informed citizens speaking up when historic places are at risk. This is one of those moments. Your voice can help ensure that future generations continue to benefit from a thoughtful, transparent process that values our nation's historic and cultural heritage.