[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 84 (Thursday, June 13, 2013)]
[Senate]
[Page S4476]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        GREAT ALLEGHENY PASSAGE

 Mr. CASEY. Mr. President, Saturday, June 15, 2013, marks the 
completion of the Great Allegheny Passage. This 150-mile trail provides 
an uninterrupted, nonmotorized passageway for travelers to hike or bike 
from Cumberland, MD, to Pittsburgh, PA. The Great Allegheny Passage 
connects to the C&O Canal Towpath, which leads from Washington, DC, to 
Cumberland, MD, creating an uninterrupted route between our Nation's 
Capital and the Forks of the Ohio.
  President Theodore Roosevelt once stated, ``Conservation means 
development as much as it does protection.'' The Great Allegheny 
Passage is an excellent example of an area that Americans have worked 
to conserve in such a way. The development of the passage has greatly 
improved the trail, while preserving its natural beauty for all to 
enjoy.
  The Great Allegheny Passage is a wonderful place for Americans of all 
ages to engage in our rich cultural history, enjoy the varied natural 
history of great river valleys, and experience a range from rural to 
urban communities.
  The Great Allegheny Passage significantly benefits the surrounding 
communities in many ways. Trails increase the quality of life in a 
community. The proximity to rivers, trails, and greenways is an 
important factor when people and businesses are deciding where to live 
or invest in new properties. Employees who work near such areas will 
reduce their commuting costs by walking or biking to work.
  The Great Allegheny Passage increases tourism to the surrounding 
areas. Americans realize that using such a trail is an environmentally 
responsible way to spend their time. The trail attracts people to the 
area, which greatly benefits the local communities. Trail users create 
a demand for more lodging, restaurants, and sporting equipment stores. 
New jobs will be created as entrepreneurs continue to bring tourism and 
service based businesses to the area.
  The Great Allegheny Passage is truly a unique path through a 
significant corridor. I encourage Pennsylvanians and all Americans to 
enjoy the natural beauty of America by visiting the Great Allegheny 
Passage, now, and for years to come.

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