President Donald Trump has proposed slashing funding for the federal Historic Preservation Fund, a key resource for maintaining and preserving the nation’s architectural and cultural history, by $158 million for the fiscal year 2026.
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Historic Preservation at Risk
Trump’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026, often referred to as a “skinny budget” for its lack of detail, includes a severe reduction in the Historic Preservation Fund. The fund would be cut to $11 million, down from $169 million in 2024. While the proposal will be reviewed by Congress, the fund’s impact on local preservation efforts could be drastically diminished if the cuts are implemented.
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The Role of the Historic Preservation Fund
Established in 1976, the Historic Preservation Fund supports local preservation efforts by funding projects across the country. It helps preserve structures and districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places, sparing them from deterioration or demolition. The fund is especially critical for small towns and rural areas, which rely on federal support for such endeavors.
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Trump’s Budget Proposal
The proposed cuts to the Historic Preservation Fund were included in Trump’s discretionary budget for 2026. However, as with all presidential budgets, the proposal must be approved by Congress. Despite the proposal, the Trump administration has yet to release $188 million appropriated for the fund in 2025, essentially halting the flow of funds to historic preservation activities.
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Federal Funding and State Responsibilities
Although historic preservation efforts are primarily managed by states and tribes, the federal Historic Preservation Fund provides crucial resources for these activities. The funding is derived from royalties from oil and gas extraction on federal lands, making it a self-sustaining program. The fund has been continuously reauthorized by Congress since its inception.
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The Fund’s Importance in Preservation
The Historic Preservation Fund is a lifeline for communities working to preserve important buildings and neighborhoods. For instance, in Edwardsville, Illinois, the fund helped document and protect the Leclaire Historic District, ensuring that local landmarks and architectural features are preserved. This type of work is essential for maintaining the cultural heritage of towns across the U.S.
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Potential Impact of the Cuts
If the funding cuts go through, many state and local preservation offices could be severely impacted, with some already facing staffing layoffs. The National Council of State Historic Preservation Officers has warned that states may soon be unable to fulfill their federally mandated duties, threatening the future of preservation efforts across the country.
