CTDOT Seeks Public Comment on Draft Agreement for Historic Preservation in Transportation Projects

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is seeking public comment on the draft Section 106 Programmatic Agreement (PA) that will govern the way CTDOT reviews transportation projects in compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act. The PA is in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Federal Railroad Administration, Federal Transit Administration, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP), and the Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).

This PA, which can be found here, will make efficiencies to the process for considering historic properties that may be affected by road, rail, and transit projects in Connecticut. CTDOT has implemented Section 106 PAs with FHWA successfully for over a decade and the new draft PA also incorporates similar reviews for transit and railroad projects.

“We are committed to ensuring that transportation projects not only meet the needs of today but also preserve and respect our rich historical and cultural assets,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “This collaboration with our federal and state partners is crucial for maintaining transparency, efficiency, and accountability in our process, particularly when it comes to preserving the historic landscapes and structures that define our communities. We encourage all members of the public to provide their feedback.”

Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act requires federal agencies to identify and assess the effects of a project on historic properties. CTDOT archaeologists and architectural historians carry out this work on behalf of the federal agencies and in conjunction with SHPO, Tribes, consulting parties, and the public.

This document lays out the roles and responsibilities for each agency to ensure compliance with Section 106. More information on Section 106 can be found on FHWA’s and the ACHP’s websites.

Members of the public can provide comments on this draft PA online. The public comment period ends at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, February 24, 2025.