Faso-Sponsored Bill to Support FDR National Historic Site Approved by House Natural Resources Committee

 

Faso-Sponsored Bill to Support FDR National Historic Site Approved by House Natural Resources Committee

Washington, D.C. – Congressman John Faso (R-Kinderhook), highlighted the approval of H.R. 5420, the FDR Historic Preservation Act by the House Natural Resources Committee. The legislation authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire the approximately 89 acres of land directly adjacent to the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site. The measure, which allows the use of donated funds to purchase the parcel, was approved with unanimous support and now awaits action before the whole House.

“The FDR National Historic Site one of the preeminent cultural assets in the Hudson Valley that draws nearly 200,000 visitors to the area, contributing to the local economy,” said Faso. “Incorporating this 89-acre parcel into the national historic site not only supports the visitor experience but also provides the Park Service more options for the property’s long-term maintenance operations.”

“The Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site is an unparalleled landmark and important part of our ‘Distinctly Dutchess’ identity,” said Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro. “This legislation will help ensure the National Park Service can protect the historic features of the original site and visitors can enjoy this piece of our heritage for generations to come. We thank Congressman Faso, the House Natural Resources Committee, and Scenic Hudson for their support of this important piece of legislation.”

Background

In 2014, Scenic Hudson received by bequest from Gerald Morgan an 89-acre property adjacent to the FDR National Historic Site. Except for a small house and outbuilding, the site is undeveloped. The property is widely regarded as the gateway to the National Historic Site, protecting views and establishing the historical context for visitors.

Acquiring this property will also allow the National Park Service more flexibility for property maintenance by allowing NPS to move some of its maintenance operations from a historic carriage house to a more permanent garage located on the property.

H.R. 5420 was introduced in March 2018.

Author: Harlem Valley News