PR State Historic Preservation Office

The PR State Historic Preservation Office is a U.S. State Government entity responsible for implementing historic preservation activities in Puerto Rico. As the State Historic Preservation Office, it plays a crucial role in identifying, evaluating, and protecting historic properties through various means, including education, survey, planning, technical assistance, preservation, documentation, and financial incentives. The office operates under the National Historic Preservation Act and receives federal funding to support its mission of preserving Puerto Rico's cultural heritage. Its activities are designed to safeguard historic sites and structures while promoting awareness and appreciation of the territory's rich historical legacy.

The office primarily receives funding through the Historic Preservation Fund Grants-in-Aid program (CFDA 15.904) administered by the National Park Service. These annual formula grants, ranging from approximately $1.2 million to $1.45 million, support a wide range of preservation efforts across eight program areas defined by the National Historic Preservation Act. The office is required to subgrant at least 10% of this funding to Certified Local Governments to foster historic preservation at the local level. In addition to these core activities, the PR State Historic Preservation Office has also been involved in disaster recovery efforts, as evidenced by its role as a subgrantee in projects related to hurricane impact mitigation. Working under the Governor's Authorized Representative, the office has implemented various preservation-related activities in response to natural disasters, demonstrating its adaptability in addressing both ongoing preservation needs and unexpected challenges to Puerto Rico's historical resources.