Hinchey announces his intiative on the Kingston waterfront

KINGSTON - In a move supporters say could bring elevated national prestige and levels of federal funding to the region, Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) Monday unveiled new legislation he's authored that would initiate the process for the Hudson River Valley special resources study by the National Park Service (NPS). Hinchey's bill would authorize the NPS to conduct a study of the Hudson River Valley to determine if the area could benefit from NPS programs and to make recommendations to Congress on what further action should be taken.

"The Hudson River Valley Greenway and the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area have drawn a lot of positive attention to one of the most beautiful places in the country. Designating the Hudson River Valley as part of the National Park System would take the region to the highest, most prestigious level possible while making the region eligible for an increase in federal resources and support," Hinchey said. "These additional resources could be used toward conservation efforts, historic preservation, tourism promotion and a wide array of economic development activities. With the recognition of the National Park Service, the Hudson River Valley would forever have its place as one of America's great natural and historic treasures."

Hinchey emphasized that what they envision would not affect private property, or the ability of counties and municipalities to continue to control their own planning and growth.

Hinchey made the announcement at the Hudson River Maritime Museum, accompanied by museum officials and several government and private agencies, including the DEC and Scenic Hudson.