Contributed by: AHF Boston
Dated Posted: February 15, 2026
Website: Visit External Site

Boston, MA — A new regional grant program will support the preservation and rehabilitation of historic properties across Central Massachusetts, helping rural communities protect significant buildings while strengthening local economies and downtowns.

The Central Massachusetts Heritage Circuit Subgrant Program will make up to $616,000 available through competitive subgrants to preserve historic properties listed on, or eligible for listing on, the National Register of Historic Places. Eligible activities include planning, design, and construction work that meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

The Central Massachusetts Heritage Circuit Subgrant Program is funded by the Historic Preservation Fund, administered by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, under the Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grant Program. Funding for this program is provided through congressional appropriations to support the preservation of historic and cultural resources nationwide.

The program is administered by the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission (CMRPC) in partnership with the Montachusett Regional Planning Commission (MRPC). Montachusett Enterprise Center (MEC), MRPC’s affiliated nonprofit organization, serves as the fiscal sponsor and grantee of record for the federal award. Architectural Heritage Foundation (AHF) will provide preservation technical expertise to support program design and implementation.

Funding recommendations will be informed by a Project Selection Committee operating under formal conflict-of-interest procedures. Final award decisions will be made by the fiscal sponsor in accordance with federal requirements.

The program will serve the 34 rural communities in the CMRPC and Montachusett regions, with a focus on historic commercial districts, civic buildings, and other significant properties that contribute to local identity and long-term economic vitality.

“This program is designed to help communities address real preservation needs while keeping historic buildings in active use,” said Janet A. Pierce, CMRPC Executive Director. “By combining federal investment with regional planning and preservation expertise, we are supporting projects that will deliver lasting public benefit.”

“AHF is thrilled to provide support to CMRPC’s subgrant program,” said Sean McDonnell, President and CEO of Architectural Heritage Foundation (AHF). “We have seen the significant economic and cultural impact of historic preservation projects across the Commonwealth and look forward to sharing what we’ve learned with the communities of Central Massachusetts.”

Subgrants will be awarded through a transparent, competitive process. We anticipate a Notice of Funding Opportunity, including additional information on eligibility, application materials, and program timelines will be released at the end of July 2026.

This project is funded in part by the Historic Preservation Fund, administered by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. The contents and opinions expressed in this press release do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of the Interior or the National Park Service, nor does the mention of trade names or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

Founded by the Legislature in 1963, CMRPC provides a variety of services to its constituencies and brings a regional perspective to planning and development. One of 13 Regional Planning Agencies in Massachusetts, CMRPC serves the City of Worcester and 39 surrounding communities in the southern two-thirds of Worcester County. CMRPC’s programs include Transportation, Regional Collaboration and Community Planning, and Geographic Information Systems.

About Architectural Heritage Foundation (AHF)

Since 1966, Architectural Heritage Foundation (AHF) has been at the forefront of preserving and reactivating historic properties to stimulate community growth. AHF partners with public entities, nonprofit organizations, and private developers to find solutions for complicated historic preservation projects. 

Return to News