Delaware National Park Proposal

Delaware is currently the only state without a unit in the National Park Service . In 2004, after nearly two years of research and planning that involved state officials, community leaders and activists, I unveiled a proposal to create the Delaware National Coastal Heritage Park.

This park would link various sites across the state that tell the story of Delaware's coastal heritage, from the days of the area's earliest inhabitants to the bustling financial, tourism and recreational area that Delaware has become. Among the themes the park will highlight are: the history of indigenous peoples; colonization and establishment of the Frontier; the nation's founding; industrial development; transportation; coastal defense; the Underground Railroad; and the coastal environment.

The proposal calls on the National Park Service to construct a series of four interpretive centers - or hubs - that would help local residents and tourists learn more about how our coastline has contributed to the development of our state and nation. The centers would provide information and guidance about the many existing historic sites, natural areas, recreational opportunities and other attractions that are part of our coastal region.

Before a national park can be built in Delaware, the Park Service must first study the need for and feasibility of building and running such a park. I have introduced, and Congress passed, legislation that would require the National Park Service to study the need for a national park in Delaware. The study will be done in cooperation with the state of Delaware, coastal communities and the general public. The Special Resource Study examines the coastal region of the state of Delaware and the many themes that relate to how resources in the area contributed to the fabric of our society.

I am happy to report that the Special Resource Study has already begun. Representatives of the National Park Service have met with my staff and begun holding town hall meetings in Delaware to familiarize themselves with our coastal region and the wonderful history and heritage it offers. They have toured much of the region by land, water and air. After the study is completed, the Park Service will recommend to Congress whether a national park should be created in Delaware, what it should look like and how much it would cost to construct. Based on those recommendations, I would then seek additional legislation to authorize and fund the park itself.

For more information, feel free to contact any of my office locations or E-MAIL ME.