New funding will be allocated to preserve some of the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
According to a press release, the National Park Service will allocate $10.7 million to support 15 projects within eight states under the Historic Preservation Fund’s (HPF’s) HBCU grant program. Per its website, the program is intended to “identify and restore historic structures on Historically Black College & University (HBCUs) campuses considered to be the most historically significant and physically threatened.”
In fiscal year 2023, Congress provided financial support for the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Grant Program through the fund. HPF, founded in 1977, had been approved for $150 million yearly toward historic preservation grants through 2024 and has contributed $2 billion to these efforts across states, tribes, local governments, and nonprofit organizations.
The National Park Service has distributed $60 million in grants since the 1990s to more than 80 HBCUs for such efforts.
Among the schools set to benefit from the latest grants is Simmons College’s Steward Hall, the only private HBCU in Kentucky, which will use the funds to renovate its windows, doors, and foundational damage. Delaware State University is also listed and plans include improving its pre-1885, three-story frame building, as well as removing interior water damage and mold. The building will be named Hope House and will be used to provide social services to students. Additionally, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania will also benefit from funding to improve its Melrose Cottage, established around 1785, by addressing the electrical systems, fire suppression system, and accessibility issues. Once complete, the building will support the admissions team and become a welcome center.
Additional schools listed include Mississippi’s Alcorn State University ($2.2 million for three projects), Rust College ($750,000), and Jackson State University ($198,564); Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University ($749,997); Alabama’s Selma University ($750,000); and South Carolina’s Benedict College ($750,000) and Voorhees University ($750,000).
“It’s vital for America’s HBCUs to preserve their vibrant history, ensuring that the places and the events that happened there are not forgotten,” National Park Service Director Chuck Sams explained in the news release. “I’m proud that the National Park Service can support this locally-led stewardship.”
