The Survey and Planning Grant Program, funded by the Historic Preservation Fund of the National Park Service, is administered under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and West Virginia state code. This program supports a wide range of historic preservation planning efforts including architectural and archaeological surveys, National Register nominations, predevelopment planning, and heritage education projects. All projects must comply with federal and state regulatory frameworks including the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and applicable state historic preservation guidelines.
Eligible applicants include Certified Local Governments (CLGs), and if non-CLG funding is available, also state or local government agencies, nonprofit organizations, for-profit firms, and educational institutions. All applications must be submitted through the online GOapply portal on the West Virginia State Historic Preservation Office website. The annual application deadline is October 31. Grants may not be awarded for less than $1,000, and grant expenditures must occur during the defined project period between approximately April 1 and August 31 of the following year.
The selection process involves an initial staff review for eligibility and completeness, followed by an external grant review panel. Recommendations from this panel are forwarded to the Archives and History Commission for consideration, which may result in full or partial awards. Final approval is granted by the Governor’s Office. Applicants must attend a subgrant orientation, provide implementation plans, submit monthly and final reports, and ensure that all consultants meet applicable qualifications.
Matching requirements vary based on applicant status. Certified Local Governments may receive up to 70% of project costs through grant funds and must provide a 30% match. All other recipients are eligible for grants covering up to 60% of project costs and must provide a 40% match. Eligible match sources include non-federal cash, Community Development Block Grant Program funds, and documented in-kind contributions. Federal match sources are generally not accepted, with limited exceptions.
Funding is contingent upon entering into a formal agreement with the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History. Costs incurred prior to the execution of the grant contract are not eligible for reimbursement. All awarded grantees must follow procurement standards and civil rights compliance measures as detailed in relevant federal statutes.
Ensure all staff and consultants meet 36 CFR 61 standards; submit all required plans and reports promptly; attend orientation.
