NEH PUBLIC NOTICE
Regarding the National Endowment for the Humanities’ Section 106 Review of New Broadcast and Production Studio That Will Serve as a Hub for KZYX’s Humanities Programming
The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) has offered Mendocino Public Broadcasting, in Philo, California, a Challenge Infrastructure and Capacity Building grant (CHA-290172). The proposed undertaking involves interior renovations to establish a radio broadcast and production studio.
NEH is an independent grant-making agency of the United States government dedicated to supporting research, education, preservation, and public programs in the humanities. This public notice is issued as part of NEH’s responsibilities under 36 C.F.R. Part 800, the regulations which implement Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966, as amended, 54 U.S.C. 306108. NEH, a funding agency, is required by regulation to identify and assess the effects of any proposed actions on historic properties. If any proposed action will have an adverse effect on historic resources, NEH works with the appropriate parties to seek ways to avoid, minimize, or mitigate any adverse effects. Additionally, the Section 106 regulations require NEH to consider the views of the public on preservation issues when making final decisions that affect historic properties.
The building was originally known as the Zbitnoff Building and is located at 390 West Clay Street in Ukiah, California 95482. It was constructed in 1948 and the exterior of the building is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion C, as it is a good example of Mid-Century Modern architecture for the area.
The proposed undertaking is limited to interior work and includes:
- Electrical wiring
- HVAC ductwork and wiring troughs
- Fiber and communications infrastructure
- Interior construction
- Interior shear walls
- Insulation, and drywall
- Interior trim and doors
- Soundproofing (walls, ceiling)
- Plumbing, fixtures, and appliances
- Electrical fixtures
- Communications infrastructure
- Security lighting
- Painting
- Flooring
On December 12, 2023, Jeff Brooke, Associate State Archaeologist, with the California Office of Historic Preservation (CA OHP), confirmed receipt of the Section 106 submission. NEH, having not received a response, notified the CA OHP on January 22, 2024, that the 30-day comment period had expired without a response from their office. In accordance with 36 CFR 800.3(c)(4), NEH will continue with the Section 106 process. Therefore, NEH issues a determination of No Adverse Effect.
As required by Section 106, NEH is providing the public with information about this project, as well as an opportunity to comment on any knowledge of, or concerns with, historic properties in the proposed project area, and issues relating to the project’s potential effects on historic properties. Comments may be submitted to the NEH by e-mail to FPO@neh.gov. The deadline for submitting comments is Thursday, February 1, 2024.