Public Notice NHPA/NEPA 1 Seeking Public Comment for 404 Hazard Mitigation Grant Proposal for Gentilly-Dillard University Drainage Improvements 2601 Gentilly Boulevard, New Orleans, LA Dillard University Google map, photo by FEMA 2015 Area of swale/detention pond As part of FEMA's 404 Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Dillard University is requesting that FEMA provide funds for subsurface storm drainage system improvements, swale/detention pond and sheet pile construction to address campus drainage issues. Federal regulations require FEMA, a funding agency to identify if any of the properties are historic (listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places); to assess the effects the work will have on historic properties; to seek ways to avoid, minimize, or mitigate any adverse effects to historic properties; and to evaluate the proposed action's potential for significant impacts to the human and natural environment. The Dillard University campus is located within a portion of the Dillard Historic District, a National Register listed District. FEMA determined that this project has a low potential to affect archaeological historic properties. FEMA determined that the proposed construction of the swale/detention pond containment areas which includes fabricating and moderate grading of two depressed grassed swales, will have an adverse effect to historic properties. To help develop a course of action for this project, FEMA is requesting your input by February 9, 2016 on ways to avoid or minimize drainage system improvements and any ideas on how to mitigate the adverse effects to this historic district. Comments can be posted at this website: http://www.crt.state.la.us/culturalassets/fema106 Or mail comments to: FEMA Mail Center/Historic Preservation 1500 Main Street Baton Rouge, LA 70802 1The high winds and heavy rains of Hurricanes Katrina and the subsequent widespread flooding damaged many buildings in Orleans Parish, LA. In the aftermath of the hurricane, the FEMA is issuing this public notice as part of its responsibilities under the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's regulations, 36 CFR Part 800, implementing Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended (NHPA). This notice applies to activities carried out by the Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) program implemented under the authority of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C.§§5152-5206. FEMA is also required to fulfill the Council of Environmental Quality regulations (NEPA regulations, 43 FR 55978 (1978)) that provide policy and procedures to enable FEMA officials to be informed and to take into account environmental considerations when authorizing or approving major FEMA actions that may significantly affect the environment of the United States. It is the intent of NEPA that federal agencies encourage and facilitate public involvement to the extent practicable in decisions that may affect the quality of the environment.