09/03/2026
⚠️ Preservation Update: Changes to Section 106 Review
Preservation New Jersey is closely following recent federal actions that could impact one of the nation’s most important historic preservation tools.
As reported by Preservation Action, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum recently issued Secretarial Order 3452, “Timely Completion of National Historic Preservation Act Section 106 Reviews.” The order directs Department of the Interior bureaus to identify ways to streamline Section 106 reviews, expand the use of exemptions and other program alternatives, and limit the use of offsite compensatory mitigation.
Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act provides an essential process for considering the effects of federally funded, licensed, or permitted projects on historic properties. It also provides opportunities for State and Tribal Historic Preservation Offices, local governments, preservation organizations, and the public to participate in that process.
While efficient project review is important, efficiency should not come at the expense of meaningful consultation or the protection of historic resources. Changes to Section 106 have real implications for communities throughout New Jersey, particularly as major infrastructure, transportation, energy, and redevelopment projects move forward.
This Secretarial Order also comes as broader changes to the federal Section 106 regulations are being considered. Preservation New Jersey will continue to follow these developments and share opportunities for New Jersey’s preservation community to stay informed and engaged.
Thank you to Preservation Action for continuing to track these important federal policy developments.