Key Issues

Historic Properties

As the Peace Bridge project involves multiple U.S. federal agencies and has received federal funds, it is subject to the National Historic Preservation Act. Section 106 requires the consideration of historic preservation including determination of properties eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and how they might be affected, exploring alternatives to avoid or reduce harm to historic properties and reaching agreement with agencies on measures to deal with adverse effects.

Extensive studies and consultation have occurred over the last several years to meet the requirements of Section 106. The process resulted in an expansion of the Prospect Hill Historic District and additional properties being added to the list of National Register Eligible properties. Click here for February 2008 letter to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The preferred U.S. plaza alternative does not encroach on the Prospect Hill Historic District and there are no demolitions within the expanded District.

In consultation with the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, SHPO, and other consulting parties, it was determined the project would have “adverse” effect on identified historic properties. Effects vary from direct effects such as demolition to any changes. For example, there is an “adverse” effect to the historic Peace Bridge itself due to the replacement of some of the existing spans. Likewise, even though the project will restore and preserve the historic Hutchinson Chapel, there is an “adverse” effect due to its removal from its historic location.

Click here for the March 2009 adverse effect determination letter to the Federal Highway Administration.

The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, SHPO, Federal Highway Administration, State Department of Transportation, and Peace Bridge Authority will enter into a Memorandum of Agreement that stipulates how the project will be implemented to resolve and mitigate the adverse effects.