A collaborative effort between the Department of Public Works and the Federal Highway Administration, successfully hosted a training session on Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

This training, conducted virtually, aimed to deepen the understanding of the regulatory requirements concerning historic properties affected by federal undertakings.

Section 106 mandates that federal agencies consider their projects’ impact on historic properties, whether those effects are direct or indirect.

The two-day training on Aug. 28 and 29 were designed to clarify these requirements and enhance compliance efforts. Discussions focused heavily on areas of potential effect and adverse effects/mitigation as a result of Section 106 compliance.

“As we look to many improvements both inside and outside the gate, relative to federal funding, we must minimize impacts on all our historic properties,” said acting Governor Josh Tenorio. “This training is a vital step in ensuring that our development projects respect and preserve the rich history of our islands.”

Participants included representatives from the Guam DPW, the Northern Mariana Islands, DPW, the Guam and NMI State Historic Preservation Offices, and various private sector firms.

The session was led by David Clarke, FHWA Federal Preservation Officer, with support from Caitlin Willoughby, GIS/NEPA Specialist at the DOT National Transportation Center.

“Section 106 is a complex regulation, and it was critical for our stakeholders to gain a clearer understanding of its impacts. We are grateful to the FHWA for providing this valuable training to our staff, partners, and the NMI,” DPW Director Vince Arriola added.