NAVFAC WASHINGTON CULTURAL RESOURCES PROGRAM
INVITES PUBLIC COMMENT ON
THE PROPOSED HVAC EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION FOR HUBBARD HALL
AT THE UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY IN ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND
NAVFAC Washington is issuing this public notice as a part of its responsibilities under 36 CFR Part 800, the regulations implementing Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended (NHPA). Section 106 requires Federal agencies to identify and consider the potential effects of their actions on historic properties through a collaborative framework for seeking, discussing and considering the views of the public on how potential adverse effects on historic properties resulting from the actions should be addressed.
NAVFAC Washington intends to install additional HVAC equipment on the roof of the north wing of Hubbard Hall (Building 260). Hubbard Hall is a historic building within the United States Naval Academy National Historic Landmark. The additional HVAC equipment will have an adverse effect on Hubbard Hall because it will alter the overall shape, mass and appearance of the building. Therefore, NAVFAC Washington is seeking comments from the installation community and the public.
Hubbard Hall was constructed in 1929 as a training facility for the midshipman crew team. It is significant because it directly contributes to the training and education of naval officers. The facility includes outdoor boat storage, an indoor training pool and other training facilities. The additional HVAC equipment will correct insufficient air exchange and dehumidification in the Ergometer Room.
NAVFAC Washington intends to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Maryland Historical Trust in order to comply with Section 106 and document the agreed upon mitigation measures to resolve the adverse effect. As mitigation, NAVFAC Washington proposes to install interpretive signage or panels documenting the history of the rowing program at the Naval Academy.
Per 36 CFR Part 800.2(5)(d), NAVFAC Washington hereby seeks public comment and input regarding this project. Interested individuals may contact the NAVFAC Washington Cultural Resources Program Manager by telephone at 202.685.1754; or by email at julie.darsie@navy.mil. Comments must be received by March 25, 2022.
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