Maryland PDF Template

What is the purpose of the Maryland Historical Trust Project Review Form?

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) Project Review Form is designed to solicit comments from the MHT, also known as the Maryland State Historic Preservation Office (MDSHPO), on state and federal undertakings. Its main purpose is to evaluate the potential impacts of proposed projects on historic properties within Maryland. By submitting this form, project planners can ensure that their projects comply with state and federal historic preservation laws, avoiding undue harm to historical sights and ensuring responsible development.

What information needs to be included in the Project Review Form?

To complete the Project Review Form, the following information must be provided:

1. General Project Information: This includes the project name, whether it is a new submission or additional information related to a previously submitted project, and the project's log number assigned by MHT, if applicable.
2. Primary Contact Information: Contact name, company or agency affiliation, mailing address, phone number, and email address.
3. Description of Undertaking: Location of the project with a map attachment, list of all federal and state agencies/programs involved, and detailed project description including the scope of work and any drawings or site plans.
4. Identification of Historic Properties: Information about historic properties that may be affected by the project, including any previous investigation details, and attachments such as maps, photographs, and descriptions of project area conditions.

Additionally, the form must include any attachments mentioned throughout, such as maps, project descriptions, site plans, photographs, and a brief description of the area's conditions.

Where should the completed Maryland Project Review Form be sent?

The completed form along with all necessary attachments should be submitted in hard copy to Beth Cole at the Maryland Historical Trust, located at 100 Community Place, Crownsville, MD 21032. This submission process helps ensure that the MHT has all the information needed to accurately assess the project's potential impacts on historic properties.

What types of projects require submitting this form?

Any project that involves state or federal funding, permits, or licenses and may affect historic properties in Maryland should submit this form. This includes, but is not limited to, projects involving:

• New construction
• Demolition
• Remodeling or rehabilitation

Additionally, projects that aim to utilize state or federal rehabilitation tax credits or affect properties subject to an easement held by MHT or another entity must also go through this review process.

How does the Maryland Historical Trust respond to submissions?

Upon reviewing the submitted Project Review Form and all accompanying documents, the MHT will make a determination regarding the project's potential impact on historic properties. The possible determinations include:

• No historic properties in the area of potential effect
• No effect on historic properties
• No adverse effect with conditions on historic properties
• No adverse effect on historic properties
• Adverse effects on historic properties

In some cases, the MHT may request additional information to make a final determination. The outcome of the review will be communicated to the primary contact listed on the form, outlining any required steps or measures to mitigate potential impacts on historic properties.

Filling out the Maryland Project Review Form requires attention to detail and an understanding of the specific information requested by the Maryland Historical Trust (MHT). Nonetheless, people often make mistakes during this process. Below, we highlight 10 common errors to avoid when completing the form:

1. Not including a map: A map, preferably a section of a USGS quad showing the project's location and boundaries, is crucial. It provides a visual context that is necessary for the MHT to understand the area of potential impact.
2. Omitting contact information details: Incomplete sections, especially in the Primary Contact Information, can delay the process. Ensure all fields, including the extension number, are filled to facilitate easy communication.
3. Overlooking the attachment of a detailed project description: The form asks for a comprehensive project description, scope of work, and site plans/drawings. Failing to attach these documents can lead to requests for additional information, holding up the review process.
4. Not checking all applicable boxes in the Proposed Work section: It's important to accurately represent the scope of the project by checking all boxes that apply, whether it involves new construction, demolition, or rehabilitation.
5. Forgetting to list all involved federal and state agencies: Neglecting to mention every federal and state agency or program involved can lead to incomplete assessments by MHT.
6. Skipping the Identification of Historic Properties section: Even if you believe the project doesn’t involve historic properties, it’s important to complete this section to confirm your project’s status and any potential historic impacts.
7. Missing attachments: All relevant attachments, such as photographs of the site and buildings, are necessary for a thorough review. Ensure they are clear and keyed to the site plan when necessary.
8. Ignoring past and present conditions of the project area: A brief description of the area's conditions, including the construction dates of buildings if known, provides essential context for the MHT’s review.
9. Incorrect project categorization: Misunderstanding the categories (e.g., new submittal, additional information related) can lead to administrative confusion or misplacement of your submission.
10. Failure to request a consultation, if needed: In cases where your project might significantly impact historical properties, not asking for a consultation can lead to delays or missed opportunities for advice on avoiding or mitigating effects.

Steering clear of these common mistakes can streamline the process, helping to ensure a smoother and quicker review by the Maryland Historical Trust.

When preparing for a project review in the context of the Maryland Historical Trust, several essential documents often accompany the Maryland form, each serving its unique purpose in the review process. These documents facilitate a comprehensive assessment by providing detailed information about the project, its potential impacts, and its compliance with relevant regulations and standards.

• Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS): These documents are crucial for understanding the project's potential environmental impacts. An EA is a concise public document that briefly discusses the need for the proposal, alternatives to the proposal, and the anticipated environmental impacts. An EIS is more detailed and is required when a project is expected to significantly affect the environment.
• Historic Structure Report (HSR): An HSR provides a detailed analysis of a property's historical and architectural significance, as well as its physical condition. It often includes recommendations for preservation, rehabilitation, and use, making it essential for projects involving historic properties.
• Archaeological Survey Report: This document presents the findings of archaeological investigations conducted within the project area. It includes details about any artifacts or features discovered, the significance of the findings, and recommendations for further research or mitigation of impacts.
• Section 106 Consultation Documentation: Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act requires federal agencies to consider the effects of their undertakings on historic properties. Documentation of this consultation process, including correspondence and agreements with state historic preservation offices and other stakeholders, is vital for regulatory compliance.
• Cultural Landscape Report (CLR): CLRs evaluate the history and integrity of a landscape, identifying its significant features and characteristics. This report is particularly relevant for projects affecting historic districts or landscapes, providing guidance on preservation and management.

Together, these documents create a fuller picture of the proposed project’s impacts, enabling a more informed review process by the Maryland Historical Trust. By considering the project from multiple angles - environmental, archaeological, historical, and cultural - stakeholders can make decisions that respect Maryland's rich heritage while accommodating necessary development.

The Maryland form is similar to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation. NEPA documents, specifically the Environmental Assessment (EA) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), are comprehensive reviews that assess the potential environmental effects of proposed federal projects. Like the Maryland form, NEPA documents require detailed project information, evaluation of impacts on the environment, and solicitation of comments from federal and state agencies. Both sets of documents prioritize assessments to protect historical, cultural, and environmental assets, requiring submissions to include location maps, descriptions of the proposed work, and any affiliations with federal and state agencies. Furthermore, NEPA documents and the Maryland form alike mandate the identification of any historical properties affected, mirroring the procedure for assessing project impacts.

Similarly, the Maryland form echoes the characteristics of a Section 106 review under the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). The Section 106 process necessitates federal agencies to consider the effects of their undertakings on historic properties and to afford the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation a chance to comment. This process, like the Maryland Historical Trust's review mechanism, involves identifying historic properties in the project area, evaluating the project's effects on such properties, and seeking feedback from state historic preservation offices. Both processes are designed to ensure that any project receiving federal or state support does not adversely affect historic properties. Specific requirements, such as the submission of project descriptions, maps, and the inclusion of contact information, mirror those found in the Maryland form, emphasizing a shared commitment to the protection of cultural resources.

When filling out the Maryland Project Review Form, certain practices can significantly improve the process, ensuring your submission is accurate and well-received. Conversely, some practices could detract from the quality of your submission. Below are lists of things you should and shouldn't do.

Do:

• Double-check the form for accuracy. Before submission, ensure all information is correct and no sections have been inadvertently overlooked.
• Include detailed attachments. Maps, project descriptions, site plans, drawings, and photographs provide essential context and should be as detailed and clear as possible.
• Identify all involved agencies. List every federal and state agency, along with the programs involved in your project clearly and completely.
• Disclose previous evaluations. If the property has been subject to prior archaeological, architectural, or historical investigations, provide thorough details about those studies.
• Describe conditions accurately. A precise account of the project area's current and past conditions can significantly impact the review process.

Don't:

• Submit without checking for completeness. A form missing vital information or attachments can delay the review process. Ensure everything required is included before submission.
• Overlook the importance of visuals. Failing to attach or providing poor-quality site plans, drawings, and photographs can lead to requests for additional information, slowing down your project.
• Ignore the details of involved agencies. Not listing all involved federal and state agencies and their respective programs can result in an incomplete understanding of your project by the reviewer.
• Forget to mention previous investigations. Omission of prior studies related to the property can affect the outcome of the current review.
• Provide vague descriptions of conditions. Lack of details about the project area's past and present conditions can hinder the review process.

Understanding the Maryland Form, officially known as the Project Review Form for the Maryland Historical Trust/ MDSHPO on State and Federal Undertakings, can sometimes be challenging due to misconceptions surrounding its purpose, requirements, and process. Correcting these misconceptions is essential for ensuring that projects comply with the necessary historical preservation requirements. Below are eight common misconceptions about the Maryland Form and clarifications for each.

• Misconception 1: The form is only necessary for projects involving construction.
  In reality, the form must be submitted for a variety of undertakings, not just new construction. This includes demolition, remodeling, rehabilitation, and any work that could affect historic properties or areas.

• Misconception 2: Electronic submissions are preferred for the form and its attachments.
  The form and all accompanying attachments should be submitted in hard copy to the specified address, contrary to the increasing trend of electronic submissions for similar applications.

• Misconception 3: Only projects funded by state or federal agencies require submission.
  While projects involving state or federal funding, permits, or licenses do require submission, any project that could potentially impact historic properties in Maryland should follow this procedure to ensure compliance.

• Misconception 4: It is unnecessary to list projects not directly funded or licensed by a federal or state agency.
  All projects, regardless of their funding source, that may affect historic properties, should be included in the form. This ensures that all potential impacts on historic sites are properly considered.

• Misconception 5: If a property is not listed in the National Register, the form is not required.
  The form is required for projects involving properties that are not only listed in the National Register but also designated as historic by local government or included in the Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties.

• Misconception 6: A project description is optional if you are providing plans or drawings.
  A detailed project description, along with scope of work, site plans, and drawings, is crucial for a thorough review, even if the plans seem self-explanatory.

• Misconception 7: Photographs of the property are only needed if there are existing structures.
  Photographs, including those of the site's current conditions, are necessary regardless of whether structures exist on the property. These images help in assessing the project's impact on historic properties.

• Misconception 8: Determination by the MHT is the final step.
  The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) determination is a critical part of the review process, but it may request additional information or actions based on their findings. Projects might undergo further review or need to meet specific conditions even after the initial determination.

Clearing up these misconceptions is crucial for anyone involved in projects that intersect with historical preservation efforts in Maryland. A correct understanding of the Maryland Form not only facilitates compliance but also promotes the preservation of Maryland's rich historical heritage.

Filling out the Maryland Project Review Form requires attention to detail and an understanding of your project's impact on historical sites. Here are key takeaways to consider while completing and using the form:

• Submission Details: You must submit a hard copy of the form and all relevant attachments to the Maryland Historical Trust at the provided address.
• Project Information: Clearly specify whether your submission is a new request or if it provides additional information for an ongoing project. Include the project name and related log number if applicable.
• Contact Information: Accurate contact information is crucial. Ensure you provide the name of the primary contact, their affiliation, mailing address, city, state, zip code, email, and phone number with an extension if necessary.
• Location and Description: Attach a map detailing the project's location. Describe the undertaking, including any new construction, demolition, or remodeling/rehabilitation. Clearly list all involved federal and state agencies or programs.
• Details on Work and Agencies: Specify the type of proposed work and note any state or federal rehabilitation tax credits or easements from MHT or other entities. Listing the involved agencies with relevant permits or tracking numbers helps clarify the project's scope and regulatory context.
• Historic Properties: Indicate if the project involves properties designated as historic, whether formally by a local government, listed in the National Register, or included in Maryland's Inventory of Historic Properties. Include any previous archaeological or historical investigations related to the site.
• Attachments: The form requires several attachments, including maps, project descriptions, site plans, photographs of the site, and a description of the area's past and present conditions. These attachments are essential for a comprehensive review.
• MHT Determination: Be prepared for various outcomes from MHT's review. They may find no historic properties affected, or they might determine there are no adverse effects, no effect, request additional information, or find adverse effects on historic properties. Understanding the possible determinations can help you anticipate next steps.

By carefully completing the Maryland Project Review Form and providing detailed and accurate information, you can facilitate a smoother review process and contribute to the preservation of Maryland's historical resources.