NEPA_-_NHPA.pdf

Division for Historic Preservation

P.O. Box 189, Waterford, New York 12188-0189 • (518) 237-8643 • www.nysparks.com

ANDREW M. CUOMO

ROSE HARVEY

Governor

Commissioner

September 11, 2015

Ms. Barbara Voulgaris Federal Preservation Officer Maritime Administration 1200 New Jersey Ave SE Washington, DC 20590

Re:

MARAD

US Merchant Marine Academy Dormitory Renovations 300 Steamboat Road, Kings Point, NY 11024-1699

15PR04582

Dear Ms. Voulgaris:

Thank you for requesting the comments of the New York State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). We have reviewed the provided documentation in accordance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. These comments are those of the SHPO and relate only to Historic/Cultural resources. They do not include other environmental impacts to New York State Parkland that may be involved in or near your project. Such impacts must be considered as part of the environmental review of the project pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act and/or the State Environmental Quality Review Act (New York Environmental Conservation Law Article 8).

We understand that the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) plans to renovate four student dormitories; Rogers, Cleveland, Jones and Barry Halls. We note that these halls are eligible for listing in the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Based upon our review of the “Character-Defining Features of Contributing Building and Structures in the United States Merchant Marine Academy Historic District” dated August 2014, we understand that the interiors of these dormitory buildings have been heavily remodeled over the years and contain no character-defining features that will be impacted by the proposed project.

As such, based upon our review of the proposed basement, mechanical room, sanitary system, electrical and cosmetic corridor work, the SHPO concurs that the proposed work will have No Adverse Effect upon historic resources. If there are substantive changes or any work is proposed for the building’s facades, consultation with our office should resume.

If you have any questions, I can be reached at (518) 268-2181.

Sincerely, Beth A. Cumming Senior Historic Site Restoration Coordinator e-mail: beth.cumming@parks.ny.gov via e-mail only