A HUD 24 CFR Part 58 Environmental Review must be completed by MFA if HUD programs, like HOME or Risk Share, are used to finance a housing project. MFA will conduct an environmental review to determine if the proposed project will adversely affect the environment. An environmental review must be completed before a project can begin. MFA’s determination of the proposed project’s impact will be made public in order to acquire comment, concerns, and/or object the use of federal funds for the proposed project.
It is crucial that developers contact MFA’s environmental review officer to initiate the environmental review process as the entire process is time sensitive. Contact should be made at the time applications are submitted for HOME, Risk Share, CDBG, National Housing Trust Fund, and Self Help Homeownership Opportunity Program. 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 (i.e. site work) before the review process is complete and a written Authority to Use Grant Funds has been approved.
For projects with five or more units, a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment complying with ASTM E1527 standards must be provided. A NESHAP/AHERA asbestos and lead-based paint risk assessment must be included for rehabilitation project of pre-1978 buildings.
Developers are required to assist in compiling the appropriate documentation for MFA’s review. For HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) only, HEROS is available to consultants and other non-RE recipients on a rolling basis. HUD anticipates that HEROS will be available to all CPD partners by October 2019. To gain HEROS access go to the the website at: HEROS Access Form . A webinar for Using HEROS for Parnter Users (Part 58) can be found at: https://www.hudexchange.info/trainings/courses/using-heros-for-partners-part-58/2695/
Related Links
MFA Environmental Review Handbook (PDF)
Level of Determination:
Environmental Review for Activity/Project that is Categorically Excluded Subject to Section 58.5
Partner Worksheet Known Supporting Documentation
Sole Source Aquifer / EPA HUD Region VI SSA MOU
If you would like more guidance on 24 CFR Part 58 Environmental Reviews please go to the HUD Exchanged website at: https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/environmental-review/.
