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Commission finds GSA seismic retrofit for Mike Mansfield Courthouse causes no adverse effect
Summary
GSA representatives described a largely behind-the-scenes seismic retrofit and interior restoration for the Mike Mansfield Federal Building; the Historic Preservation Commission found the project consistent with No Adverse Effect under Section 106.
The Butte-Silver Bow Historic Preservation Commission on May 5 reviewed the General Services Administration’s seismic retrofit and limited modernization of the Mike Mansfield Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse and found the project consistent with No Adverse Effect under Section 106 review.
At the meeting, GSA representatives including Steve Janzen said the work is primarily structural and would occur "behind the scenes," while common interior spaces will be restored to better reflect historic character. Janzen also told commissioners there will be an ADA-accessible ramp placed at the front of the building that will be “unobtrusive to fulfill accessibility requirements.”
The scope the commission reviewed included exterior masonry repairs (addressing spalling granite, repointing mortar joints and cleaning metal features), terracotta restoration where damaged, removal of incompatible sealants, and replacement of non-original window sashes with painted wood units. The Historic Preservation Officer presented the review materials and explained the proposed treatments meant to preserve character-defining features.
Chairman Steve Hinick moved that the Section 106 review be found consistent with No Adverse Effect; Commissioner Russell O’Leary seconded and the motion carried unanimously.
The commission’s finding clears a key local review step for the GSA project; federal Section 106 consultation and any required mitigation obligations will continue under the applicable federal process.
