How can the findings of a significant cultural resource affect development?

The presence of a significant cultural resource within a proposed project may affect development by requiring relocation or modification of design plans to avoid damage to culturally significant areas. Part of the intent of the CRM process is to provide developers with information about cultural resource protection so that adjustments can be made early in the planning stage thus avoiding costly adjustments in the later development stages. The process recognizes that project redesign is not always feasible and offers other options when the proposed impacts to sites cannot be avoided.

How are CRM projects conducted?

The methods used for a CRM investigation are guided by the nature of the project, its complexity, and the federal and state requirements for these projects. The Standards outline a logical set of sequential steps (phases) to be followed during the compliance process. Projects that exhibit a potential to be rich in cultural resources may require more than one phase of CRM investigation and more in-depth study. However, the Standards allow investigators the discretion to customize each phase to fit the complexity and particulars of their project as long as the intent of the law and the spirit of the Standards are met. Three successive phases of investigation are described in the Standards:
 


What are typical costs for CRM projects?

The cost of a project is related to its size and complexity. Average costs range from less than $1,500 for a small Phase IA project in a rural area to more than $100,000 for a large, complex Phase III data recovery, or even several million dollars as was the case of the African Burial Ground Project in Manhattan. It is wise to get estimates from several consultants and carefully consider what each consultant will provide for the cost indicated. Be aware that the lowest price will not always provide the best results and problems may result if the product is judged inadequate by reviewers. Technical proposals and cost estimates should demonstrate and guarantee compliance with the Standards for best results. Quality surveys facilitate review of your project and ease your progress through the permit process. A checklist of items that are frequently included in a Request for Proposal (RFP) is included in Appendix B.

Where can I get more information about historic preservation?
 

  • New York Archaeological Council
  • New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
  • NYS OPR&HP, local agencies such as the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission
  • National Register of Historic Places
  • New York State Museum and regional or university museums
  • Local historians & historical societies
  • Local chapters of the New York State Archaeological Association
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    The remaining sections of this handbook describe each of the sequential phases of a cultural resource investigation as outlined in the Standards. Not all projects will require all phases; some will stop at the conclusion of Phase I, while others will continue through Phase III.
     

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