In the course of discussions with the Navy about the future of Ford Island, it has become clear that the challenge presented by Naval historic properties reaches beyond procedural compliance issues. According to the Navy, the far broader problem is the lack of federal funding for ongoing maintenance of facilities. Ford Island's historic resources are emblematic of the widespread need for military stewardship of historic buildings and sites - a need that requires increased federal funding and innovative private funding solutions.
Military historic properties convey a strong sense of tradition and inspiration to the uniformed services and the general public. These properties are tangible reminders of the sacrifices and heroism demonstrated by American servicemen and women, but keeping them - and all military facilities - in sound condition requires adequate real property maintenance funds. Chronic deferred maintenance of historic properties, due to inadequate funding levels, compromises military assets. The need for real property maintenance funding exists across all service branches of the Department of Defense.
Take Action!
Ford Island, Pearl Harbor
America's 11 Most Endangered Places
Contact Secretary of Defense and let him know that historic preservationists will support requests to the Administration and the Congress for increases in real property maintenance funds, including those for historic properties. Write to:
Secretary of Defense
1000 Defense, The Pentagon
Washington, D.C. 20301 - 1000
In order to continue consulting on the development on Ford Island - participation in on-site negotiations and briefings, reviewing details of the RFP solicitation to developers, and drafting responses to relevant preservation documents (Programmatic Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding, Environmental Impact Statements) - the National Trust needs financial support for its Pearl Harbor Advocacy Team. Donations to the advocacy effort will ensure the National Trust's capacity to remain a constructive and active voice for historic preservation considerations in the re-development of Ford Island at Pearl Harbor.
