For Release: Thursday, June 29, 2006

COSTELLO, SHIMKUS INTRODUCE LEGISLATION DESIGNATING
A NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA IN SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Washington - U.S. Congressmen Jerry Costello (D-IL) and John Shimkus (R-IL) introduced legislation today that would designate a 17-county area of Southern Illinois a National Heritage Area.  Heritage Areas are places designated by Congress where natural, cultural, historic and recreational resources combine to form a nationally distinctive landscape arising from patterns of human activity shaped by geography . 

The theme, "Land Between the Rivers:  Confluence of Freedom in Southern Illinois," will highlight the region's vital role in U.S. history between the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.  Southern Illinois University Carbondale and other supporters have completed a feasibility study that shows Southern Illinois has sufficient assets of historic importance to merit the designation, which provides federal funds through the National Park Service to help promote tourism and conservation. 

"Southern Illinois has a proud and important history that deserves national recognition," said Costello.  "This is a truly local effort to shine a light on the unique history that belongs to our region.  Moreover, the designation will further highlight the natural beauty and other attractions that Southern Illinois has to offer."

"Southern Illinois is distinctly different than many other parts of our great state.  The natural ecological beauty, Civil War historic sites, and diverse ethnic influences create a unique heritage deserving of national recognition," stated Shimkus.

Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Barack Obama (D-IL) have introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

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