(a)

1. (1) With limited funding and because the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program is ultimately concerned with protecting and preserving the state’s historic resources, grant funding recommendations largely favor those project activities that correct conditions that imminently threaten the structural viability of the property, such as:

   1. (A) Sealing the envelope of the building (roof, window, masonry projects); and
   2. (B) Addressing failing foundations and other structural issues.
2. (2) Because of federal mandates placed on public buildings, projects involving Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq., components also receive priority consideration.
3. (3) Also, conditions that present a hazard to the building’s occupants (unvented gas heaters, fire safety issues, etc.) or to the building itself (hazardous electrical wiring) are also priorities for grant funding.

(b)

1. (1) As a general rule, projects involving sidewalks, interior finishes, correcting inappropriate past remodels, etc., in a building that is accessible and structurally sound may be assigned a lower priority and receive no funding.
2. (2) The program staff understands that these are worthy projects and would greatly enhance the public’s use of these properties.
3. (3) Unfortunately, limited funding may mean that while these projects are eligible, they are not necessarily competitive or fundable.