Capital District Times

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has reintroduced a bill aimed at expanding the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area to include all of Washington and Saratoga Counties. The bipartisan legislation, co-sponsored by Congressman Paul Tonko, seeks to commission a study on the benefits that such an expansion could bring to the region.

The bill aims to increase opportunities for the counties to access federal grant programs, boost heritage tourism, and support cultural and economic development in the area. "Upstate New York and the North Country are the cradle of the American Revolution and home to numerous battlefields and historic sites," Stefanik stated. She expressed pride in her legislation, noting its potential to preserve the area's rich heritage for future generations.

Congressman Paul Tonko highlighted the significance of heritage areas, saying, “Our heritage areas are vital threads in the fabric of our nation’s story—preserving places of deep cultural, historical, and natural significance while uplifting the communities that steward them."

Andy Kitzmann, Executive Director of the Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area, spoke in favor of the inclusion of Saratoga and Washington Counties. “Adding Saratoga and Washington Counties to the Congressionally designated boundaries of the National Heritage Area will help us tell a more complete story and expand partnerships," Kitzmann said.

Sean Kelleher, a historian, emphasized the historical relevance of the region during the American Revolution, declaring that expanding the Heritage Area would correct a long-standing oversight and preserve the legacy while unlocking economic opportunities through heritage tourism.

Heritage areas have demonstrated success in fostering job creation and promoting economic, cultural, and community development. In addition, they generate revenue for local governments and sustain community revitalization and heritage tourism. The local Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and the Champlain Valley National Heritage Partnership are examples of heritage sites that contribute to these efforts.

The Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area Enhancement Act was previously passed on the House Floor by an overwhelming bipartisan vote.