Our distinguished Congressman Maurice Hinchey has once again proposed a highly promising idea for the Hudson Valley.

It was Congressman Hinchey who sponsored the Greenway, 22 years ago, that has become such a success. It was Congressman Hinchey who sponsored the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area in 1994 that makes us feel so proud. And it is he and his excellent staff members who do so much, every day, to support local environmental, cultural, and economic development efforts throughout the Hudson Valley.NOW, THE CONGRESSMAN IS PROPOSING A NEW, AND IMPORTANT LEGACY OF THE QUADRICENTENNIAL YEAR: THAT THE HUDSON VALLEY BECOME A UNIT OT THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE!

How creative, gutsy, and effective such a move would be—typical of all the Congressman’s work for us. The series of Listening Workshops now in progress throughout the Valley under the aegis of the Quad Commission has disclosed a widespread desire to consider the Hudson Valley as a community. How better to achieve that end than to be recognized by the National Park Service as a region of significance to all Americans!

National Park designation would mean, says Mr. Hinchey, “vastly increased” resources to help with conservation, historic preservation, tourism, and other forms of economic development. It would mean in no way any impingement on local decisions or private ownership. Above all, it would mean that all Americans (and visitors from everywhere) would at last come to understand the central role our River has played in the story of the nation, would discover the Hudson Valley’s astonishingly rich natural resources, and marvel at the uniqueness and growing strength of our communities.

If other American rivers – as they do – enjoy National Park status, prosper in the relationship and are protected for all people and all time – then surely our glorious Hudson River should enjoy it too!

Hosannahs to Congressman Hinchey for this exciting proposal, and Excelsior!