Nantucket’s historic character includes its buildings, landscapes, waterfront, archaeological resources, and overall setting.
Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act requires federal agencies to consider how their projects and approvals affect historic resources. It provides opportunities for consultation with local governments and Tribal Nations, along with public participation.
Proposed changes in S. 5653, the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026, could weaken historic review, community participation, and accountability.
Nantucket Tipping Point is asking our congressional delegation to preserve these protections.
Dear Senators Warren and Markey and Representative Keating:
Nantucket Tipping Point (NTP), established in 2018, works to protect the island’s health, safety, welfare, and environment. Our mission is to educate and encourage residents, visitors, Town officials, and leadership to support responsible development that protects Nantucket’s finite resources, infrastructure, natural environment, and National Historic Landmark designation for the long term.
In keeping with that mission, we ask you to oppose or remove provisions of S. 5653 that would weaken Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.
Nantucket’s historic significance extends beyond individual buildings to its landscapes, waterfront, archaeological resources, and overall setting. Federal decisions affecting these resources should include careful consideration of relevant direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, together with meaningful consultation with local governments, Tribal Nations, and the public.
We support improvements that make permitting more efficient while preserving thorough review, meaningful public participation, and effective court remedies when agencies fail to meet their obligations. These safeguards help ensure that development decisions account for their long-term consequences.
Please protect Section 106 and the community’s opportunity to help safeguard Nantucket’s irreplaceable historic resources.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Will Willauer - President
Nantucket Tipping Point
A Senate procedural vote on the permitting package is scheduled for Monday, November 9, 2026. Please contact our congressional delegation promptly and ask them to oppose or remove provisions that would weaken Section 106.
Use your own name and contact information and explain in your own words why protecting Nantucket’s historic character and meaningful community participation matters to you.
Senator Elizabeth Warren
Select Historical Preservation as the topic.
Submit comments to Senator Warren
Senator Edward Markey
Select Environment/Public Works as the message topic. The remaining form fields will then appear.
Submit comments to Senator Markey
Representative Bill Keating
Complete any ZIP code verification and select Environment as the issue of concern.
Submit comments to Representative Keating
You may also contact your own U.S. senators and representative if you live elsewhere.