Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced her intention to present the Finger Lakes National Heritage Area Act to the Senate this September.
Should it be approved, this legislation would funnel funds to protect the natural beauty and historical resources of the Finger Lakes region.
The introduction of this bill marks the concluding phase of an initiative that began with a feasibility study in 2019. National Heritage Areas (NHAs) are designated by Congress to acknowledge the natural, cultural, or historical importance of a region.
“The Finger Lakes are a national treasure, abundant in scenic landscapes, a rich past, and booming small businesses. Recognizing the region’s significance, I’m advocating to label it as an NHA. This title would boost tourism, generate employment, and equip local communities with the tools for sustained success. I am fully committed to ensuring this bill becomes law,” Gillibrand commented.
The proposed Finger Lakes NHA would encompass fourteen counties: Cayuga, Chemung, Cortland, Livingston, Monroe, Onondaga, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne, and Yates.
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