Efficient Management Model for FEMA Historic Revitalization Projects in the Southern Region of Puerto Rico

Abstract

Federal post-disaster recovery projects involving historic and architecturally significant structures in southern Puerto Rico have experienced prolonged delays between fund obligation and construction. These delays are largely concentrated in pre-construction phases and are associated with scope uncertainty, sequential administrative reviews, inconsistent technical documentation, and the late integration of historic preservation requirements into project management processes. This study employs a qualitative, multi-case analytical approach grounded in Engineering Management principles to examine recurring delay patterns across federally funded historic revitalization projects. The analysis focuses on administrative workflows, documentation review cycles, interagency coordination, and compliance requirements under historic preservation regulations. Based on the identified patterns, the study develops and presents an Efficient Management Model that restructures pre-construction activities into a sequenced and time-bound process integrating scope validation, documentation coordination, historic preservation planning, and interagency alignment. The proposed model aims to reduce administrative rework, improve coordination among stakeholders, and enhance schedule predictability while safeguarding historic resources within post-disaster recovery contexts. Key Terms ⎯ Interagency coordination, Preconstruction delays, Regulatory integration, Scope validation.