Environmental Review

If HUD federal funds (e.g. HOME or Risk Sharing) are used to provide financing for a housing project, a HUD Part 58 Environmental Review (ER) must be completed by MFA before the project can begin. The environmental review allows MFA to determine whether there are any significant impacts that could adversely affect the environment. In the case of potentially adverse impacts, it informs the public about the project and gives them the opportunity to comment or object to the use of federal funds.

Depending on the activity, an environmental review can take from 7 to 90 or more days, so it is IMPORTANT that developers contact MFA's Environmental Review Officer to initiate the ER process when the application for HOME or Risk Sharing  funds is submitted to MFA Housing Development. It is also important to note that a developer may not take any choice-limiting actions (e.g. acquistion), or any actions that might have an adverse environmental impact (e.g. any site work), before the ER process is complete and written clearance has been provided by MFA's Environmental Review Certifying Official.

MFA requires developers to assist in compiling the appropriate compliance documentation. For most projects with 5 or more units, a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment prepared by a qualified environmental professional (List) to ASTM E1527 standards must be provided, including lead and asbestos screening for rehabilitation of pre-1978 buildings. Below you will find several forms, instructions, and related materials to assist in compiling this documentation.

1. Project Abstract Form Word
2. Compliance Documentation Checklist (24CFR58.6) Word
3. Statutory Checklist (24CFR58.5) Word
4. NEPA Environmental Assessment Checklist Word
5. Instructions for Completing a Statutory Checklist Word
6. Assessment Techniques for NEPA EA PDF

1. Sample Floodplain Notices Word
2. Sample Notice of Airport Hazards PDF

1. Summary of Requirements under 24 CFR 58 PDF
2. HUD ER Process Summary Chart PDF
3. Flowchart of ER Process PDF
4. Floodplain Management Requirements (24 CFR 55) Word
5. 8 Step Process for Floodplain Management Flowchart PDF
6. HUD's Noise Guidebook PDF
7. Accident Potential Zones Fact Sheet PDF
8. List of Websites Relevant to Environmental Reviews Word

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