Applications for funding through this Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) program under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act must include the following items:

- A completed Grant Application Form.

- A concise history of the building and its significance.

- High quality photographs that clearly depict the present condition of the building (interior and exterior). Photographs should include details of architectural character defining elements of the property, including doors, windows, roof, porches, lobby, corridors, decorative elements, fireplaces, and any additional features addressed in the proposed preservation project.

- A copy of the National Register of Historic Places Nomination. These grants are available for the preservation of historic structures listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and

- Any available architectural analysis and /or assessment of the building.

A NPS selection panel will rate and rank the grant applications. Awards will be made according to the following selection criteria:

- Properties of major historical and architectural significance.
- Properties retaining architectural integrity (the building has not been so altered as to have lost its historic appearance).
- Properties demonstrating the most critical need for immediate intervention to correct structural and safety defects in order to preserve the building.
- Applicants demonstrating the ability to complete the project successfully within the established timeline. The timeline shall indicate the start and completion dates for each activity (planning and design, general conditions, mobilization, site preparation, etc.) and the scope of work for the project.

The timeline shall strictly adhere to the following guidelines:

1. The project must begin within six months after the grant agreement has been signed. If activities have not begun in accordance with the approved project timeline the grant will be suspended or terminated and the funds recaptured by the National Park Service.

2. 50% of the total project shall be completed within 18 months after the signing of the grant agreement (including planning, design, and construction).

3. The project scope of work must be completed within 3 years of the start date of the grant agreement. Planning and design shall be completed within 1 year maximum and the construction phase shall be completed within 2 years maximum.

- The proposed cost estimates for the preservation of historic properties must be eligible activities under the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF), and appear reasonable and necessary for the proposed work.

- The grant application must be received by NPS by the announced deadline.

- The proposed plan for intervention of the historic structure should be a technically well planned proposal and the proposed work likely to achieve a quality treatment of the historic structure in order to receive the grant.

The goal of this grant program is to make historic properties on the campuses of HBCUs safe and useable. Eligible activities include structural stabilization; masonry work; abating environmental hazards; installing or replacing heating, ventilating, and cooling systems; replacing damaged electrical and plumbing systems; repairing leaky roofs; treating termite damage; and providing handicapped accessibility. All work must be performed in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.