Press Release
September 12, 2019
Contact: Lynda Ozan
State Historic Preservation Office, Oklahoma Historical Society
Office: 405-522-4484
Fax: 405-522-0816
lozan@okhistory.org
www.okhistory.org/shpo
State Historic Preservation Office Now Receiving Project Suggestions Online
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Historical Society’s State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), under the National Historic Preservation Act, administers the federal historic preservation program in Oklahoma. The purpose of the program is to encourage preservation of the state's archaeological and historic resources for everyone's benefit.
The Statewide Preservation Plan, prepared by the SHPO and currently in draft form for years 2020–2024, sets forth the statewide preservation community’s goals and objectives. The SHPO's priorities for addressing the State Plan's goals are a continuation of the archaeological and historic/architectural resources survey program, with special emphasis on resources associated with underrepresented peoples and extension of survey coverage to previously unstudied areas; preparation of National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) nominations; and continuation of public outreach and technical assistance programs.
The SHPO welcomes project ideas and recommended priorities from the public for its fiscal year 2020 activities to help strengthen preservation efforts in Oklahoma. Starting September 15, 2019, the Project Suggestion Form will be available online through the SHPO website, or in hard copy by request. The form can be submitted electronically at any point during the year, but will only be considered for the next funding cycle that is available. At this time, you may submit suggestions for the fiscal year 2020 funding cycle. To view the Project Suggestion Form, please visit the SHPO website at www.okhistory.org/shpo/projectsuggestion. Contact Lynda Ozan at 405-522-4484 or lozan@okhistory.org with questions or to receive a hard copy of the form.
The SHPO conducts surveys to identify archaeological and historic resources; nominates eligible properties to the NRHP; comments on the effects of federal undertakings on archaeological and historic resources; develops the statewide preservation plan; administers the Certified Local Governments (CLG) Program; provides comments to the National Park Service about rehabilitation projects proposed for federal tax credits; and provides public outreach programs and technical assistance to preservation professionals, government agencies and interested citizens. The SHPO expects to receive approximately $879,000 from the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) for these programs and its operations. Ten percent of the HPF award is reserved for pass-through grants to CLGs.
The State Historic Preservation Office is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit www.okhistory.org.
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