Contributed by: The Landmark Society of Western New York
Organization: The Landmark Society of Western New York
Dated Posted: August 8, 2026
Website: Visit External Site

Protect the Public’s Voice in Historic Preservation

Many of you may have seen recent news about proposed changes to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. While the name may not be familiar, the process affects communities across the country—including right here in Western New York.

For more than 50 years, Section 106 has required federal agencies to consider how federally funded, federally permitted, or federally licensed projects may affect historic places. Just as importantly, it gives State Historic Preservation Offices, Tribal Historic Preservation Offices, local governments, preservation organizations, and members of the public an opportunity to participate in that review before decisions are made.

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) has now approved a proposal that would significantly change how this process works. Among other changes, the proposal would greatly reduce the consultation process—the part of Section 106 that ensures preservation organizations, Tribal Nations, state preservation offices, and local communities have a meaningful opportunity to provide input when historic resources may be affected.

We believe these changes could weaken one of the nation’s most important preservation laws by limiting public participation and reducing transparency in decisions that affect our shared historic and cultural heritage.

There is still time to make your voice heard.

Before these changes can take effect, they must be reviewed by the Administration, published in the Federal Register, and opened for public comment. During that public comment period, individuals and organizations will have the opportunity to tell federal officials why public involvement in the Section 106 process matters.

The Landmark Society is working closely with preservation partners across New York State and the nation to monitor this process. When the public comment period opens, we will provide:

• A simple overview of the proposed changes
• A template comment letter and talking points
• Instructions for submitting comments
• Information on how to contact your elected representatives

Individual comments from citizens and organizations are especially important and carry more weight than a single group letter.

Historic places belong to all of us, and decisions about their future should include the voices of the communities they represent. We encourage you to stay informed, watch for updates from The Landmark Society, and be ready to participate when the public comment period begins.

For additional background information and resources, visit the Preservation League of New York State’s webpage HERE.