Key committee okays Gateways Network

Joel Dunn, executive director of the Chesapeake Conservancy, praised the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee for voting out of committee a five-year re-authorization of the Chesapeake Bay Gateways and Watertrails Network.

The committee's action, taken November 8th, supports access to the bay and its history and culture through a program of water trails and points of interest, such as museums, historic sites, parks, and refuges.

"The Senate committee clearly recognizes the value of connecting people to the Bay," said Joel Dunn, executive director of the Chesapeake Conservancy. "The Gateways and Watertrails program opens doors to recreation and to learning about this great region."

Dunn commended Senator Ben Cardin, (D-MD) for his leadership on the issue. Cardin is on the committee.

Cardin said, "The Bay is one of our nation's most treasured resources and we have a duty and obligation to help people understand and appreciate its rich cultural, historic and natural wonders."

The Chesapeake Gateways and Watertrails program was originally authorized in 1998. It has developed into a partnership system of 160 sites in six states and the District of Columbia. Visitation at Gateways sites has grown to more than10 million people annually. The program is administered by the National Park Service.

The Park Service can provide matching grants up to $100,000 for projects that advance the Gateways Network goals of accessibility and stewardship. The Gateways Network recently awarded Maryland $711,000 for 15 separate projects, including $100,000 to develop the Star-Spangled Banner Watertrails access plan, $75,000 for the Annapolis Maritime Museum, and $86,450 for the Harve de Grace Maritime Museum to promote the Captain John Smith National Historic Trail.

The network enjoys wide support in the Senate. Co-sponsors of the reauthorization act include U.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD), Thomas R. Carper (D-DE), Christopher A. Coons (D-DE), Mark Warner (D-VA) and James Webb (D-VA).

Representative John Sarbanes (D-MD) has introduced a companion measure in the House of Representatives that has attracted seven cosponsors. The House bill is awaiting Committee action.

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