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Washington D.C.- Senator Kerry testified before the National Parks Subcommittee today in support of a bill that would establish the Upper Housatonic Valley as a National Heritage area. The Upper Housatonic Valley runs along the western border of Massachusetts and Connecticut. It is bounded to the east by the commerce and development of the Connecticut River and to the west by the Hudson River. It covers an area of 950 square miles and some 29 communities.
“The National Heritage designation is a means of heightening appreciation of the region, preserving its natural and historic resources, improving the local economy and quality of life, controlling sprawl, and promoting the cleanup of the Housatonic River,” said Senator Kerry in a statement to the committee. According to a study by the National Park Service the Valley contains “nationally important resources and represents important national themes.” It said the Valley is a “singular geographical and cultural region that has made significant national contributions through its literary, artistic, musical, and architectural achievements, its iron, paper, and electrical equipment industries, and its scenic beautification and environmental conservation efforts.” Senator Kerry used the opportunity to testify before the Subcommittee to both highlight the historic importance of the area and to urge passage of the legislation so that this area may be protected for future generations.
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