Federal Real Property Assistance Program

The Federal Real Property Assistance Program conveys surplus Federal Real Property for educational purposes at fair market value.

The Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 (P.L. 81-152), as amended, provides statutory authority for the disposal of excess real property to another executive agency having a need for the property, or, if there is no such need, for its disposal as surplus property in accordance with federal laws and regulations. The Federal Real Property Assistance Program conveys surplus Federal Real Property for educational purposes at fair market value. Property must be used for education purposes including but not limited to higher education, elementary and secondary education, libraries, central administrative facilities, educational television and radio, rehabilitation and training, vocational education and research, correctional education centers.

Those groups, organizations, entities, or institutions providing educational programs including: States; their political subdivisions and instrumentalities; and tax supported organizations or private nonprofit institutions held exempt from taxation under Section 501(C)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 may apply.

Program participants receiving educational opportunities will benefit.

Potentially eligible education programs and facilities may include, but are not limited to: • Schools and college campuses; • Public libraries; • Vocational training; • Rehabilitation of mentally or physically handicapped facilities; • Alternative schools; • School administration and maintenance facilities; and • Athletic fields.

Potentially eligible education programs and facilities may include, but are not limited to: • Schools and college campuses; • Public libraries; • Vocational training; • Rehabilitation of mentally or physically handicapped facilities; • Alternative schools; • School administration and maintenance facilities; and • Athletic fields.

Up to 30 years. The fair market value (FMV) of the property is amortized over a period of time established based on the type of property acquired. Public benefit discount of the FMV is granted when public educational programs are being conducted.

Preapplication coordination is required. This program is eligible for coverage under E.O. 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs." An applicant should consult the office or official designated as the single point of contact in his or her State for more information on the process the State requires to be followed in applying for assistance, if the State has selected the program for review. All potentially eligible entities are notified of the availability of property including State and local officials or any known educational entity authorized to operate within the general geographical area. Upon receipt of a notice of intent to file an application, a preapplication conference is possible. An environmental impact assessment is required for this program.

All applications must establish eligibility of the institution and its program needs. A public benefit allowance formula, uniformly applied, determines the respective benefits of each program. Basic allowance of 50 percent is allowed to institutions meeting the following: (1) Proof of current need; (2) ability to operate and maintain; (3) suitability of facilities or adaptability for conversion; (4) requirement for utilization through period of restrictions; and (5) nondiscrimination because of race, color, sex, handicap, or national origin. Additional allowances are made for tax support, accreditation, hardship, not met needs, integrated research, public services, and training programs. For competing programs, the one showing the greatest public benefit is selected. Where property can be divided, as many compatible programs as possible are accommodated.

Written notification with follow-up issuance of formal transfer of title.

Thirty to 90 days for tentative decisions, after receipt of the application, and 90 to 360 days to the formal transfer of a title.