Historic Preservation

With respect to historic preservation, FTDD’s mission is to protect, preserve, and promote the historic resources of the Northeast Tennessee region.  This is being accomplished through an agreement with the Tennessee Historical Commission, which receives federal funds from the Department of the Interior, National Park Service.  Historic preservation activities include assisting with the preparation of nominations to the National Register of Historic Places, promoting preservation tax incentives, preparation of applications for federal preservation grants, promoting the Certified Local Government program, assisting with historic surveys, and providing documentation for Section 106 reviews.

Nominations to the 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.  FTDD assists with compiling and synthesizing required documentation, maps, and photographs to develop nominations, which are then considered by the State Review Board.

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 he/she restores the building in accordance with the National Park Service’s standards.  FTDD 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.  FTDD assists with preparation and submission applications.

Certified Local Government Program

Local governments that meet certain criteria, including 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.  FTDD works with historic zoning commissions, promotes training opportunities, and provides information concerning the CLG program.

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.  FTDD will assist 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.  FTDD gathers and the information that is required, consults with interested parties, and submits all materials and comments to the Tennessee Historical Commission.

FTDD’s designated Historic Preservation Planner is Gray Stothart.  He may be reached by telephone at 423-722-5096, or by e-mail at gstothart@ftdd.org.