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Westerman Votes for Reauthorization of HBCU Historic Preservation Program

June 27, 2017

WASHINGTON – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) issued the following statement Tuesday (June 27) upon passage of H.R. 1135, a bill to reauthorize the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Historic Preservation Program:

"The reauthorization of the HBCU Historic Preservation program is important for our nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities," Westerman, vice chair of the House HBCU Caucus, said. "Universities with storied histories across the country, including the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, are eligible for the program which would provide funding for a large list of projects to improve safety, accessibility, and learning environments. I am proud to have voted for this bill and proud to stand with UAPB and HBCUs across the nation."

According to the National Park Service, more than $65 million in grants have been awarded through the program during the last 30 years. Recipients of grants are required to cover 30 percent of the cost of an eligible project, Bloomberg reported, adding that such "projects include stabilization, masonry repair, removing lead paint or other hazards, and the improvement of access for the disabled."

UAPB is the only HBCU in the Fourth Congressional District of Arkansas. Arkansas Baptist College and Philander Smith College, both located in Little Rock, have participated in the preservation program since its inception.