[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 36 (Wednesday, March 19, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E520]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                PRESERVE THE ILLINOIS AND MICHIGAN CANAL

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. WILLIAM O. LIPINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 19, 1997

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, on February 12, I introduced legislation 
to preserve and enhance the Illinois and Michigan Canal National 
Heritage Corridor. H.R. 1042 extends the I&M Canal National Heritage 
Corridor Commission for another 5 years to 2004.
  Designated by Congress in 1984, the I&M Canal National Heritage 
Corridor was the first ``partnership park'' of its kind and is now a 
model for such parks throughout the Nation. The Corridor stretches 100 
miles across Illinois, from Chicago to LaSalle/Peru and encompasses 450 
square miles. Its rich heritage and recreational opportunities attract 
countless visitors to the area and enhance the pride of local 
residents. Simply put, the Corridor is of great historical significance 
to the State of Illinois, as well as the entire Nation.
  Since the creation of the Commission, which coordinates the efforts 
and resources of Federal, State, and local agencies, we have seen 
significant progress being made along the Corridor. However, there is 
still a great deal more that needs to be done. We must continue to work 
to preserve this unique treasure for future generations. H.R. 1042 will 
allow the Commission to continue its vital work and further the 
successful partnership between Federal, State, and local agencies as 
they work to preserve this important piece of our Nation's history.
  I strongly urge my colleagues to support my bill, H.R. 1042.

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