If HUD federal funds through programs like HOME or Risk Sharing are used to finance a housing project, a HUD Part 58 Environmental Review must be completed by MFA before the project can begin. The environmental review allows MFA to determine if there the project could adversely affect the environment. If that determination is made, MFA will inform the public about the project's environmental impact, and provide an opportunity for public comment and/or to voice an objection to the use of federal funds for the project.
Depending on the activity, an environmental review can take from seven to 100 or more days. Therefore, it is crucial that developers contact MFA's environmental review officer, listed in the tab below, to initiate the environmental review process at the time the application for HOME or Risk Sharing funds is submitted to MFA Housing Development Department. It is also important to note that a developer may not take any choice-limiting actions such as acquisition or any actions that might have an adverse environmental impact (any site work) before the review process is complete and written clearance has been provided by MFA's environmental review officer.
MFA requires developers to assist in compiling the appropriate compliance documentation. For most projects with five or more units, a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment prepared by a qualified environmental professional to ASTM E1527 standards must be provided. The assessment should include NESHAP/AHERA asbestos survey for all rehabilitation and HUD lead-based paint risk assessment for rehabilitation of pre-1978 buildings in addition to the MFA form below titled MFA Environmental Checklist.
Below you will find several forms, instructions, and related materials to assist in compiling this documentation. Please contact MFA to consult prior to compiling any environmental review documents. All environmental review forms and documentation must be submitted to MFA electronically. More guidance can be found at the HUD Exchange website: https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/environmental-review/ and at https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/environmental-review/federal-related-laws-and-authorities/ .
A-Site and Neighborhood Standards
Environmental Review for Activity/Project that is Categorically Excluded Subject to Section 58.5
Wild and Scenic Rivers Map
Sole Source Acquifers Map
Floodplain - 8 step process with Notices
NEPA EA Factors Guidance
Non-attainment areas in New Mexico
USDA Acres of Prime Farmland Map
USGS Coastal Barrier Map
