Sen. Lamar Alexander always has been a leader to members of his community and constituents in our state and across the country. And, once again he is stepping forward in Congress. This time to help bring much needed funding for key infrastructure in our national parks.
Currently, our national parks face roughly $12 billion in deferred maintenance. Examples of needed fixes include roads, trails, campgrounds, and visitor centers. There is nearly $50 million in deferred maintenance at the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park alone.
Alexander long has been a champion of our national parks. Born in the foothills of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, he understands the importance of these special places. As he approaches his final year in the United States Senate, Alexander would further solidify his legacy by helping to pass the Restore Our Parks Act (ROPA, S. 500/H.R. 1225).
ROPA would set aside $6.5 billion over the next five years to implement key infrastructure projects that preserve the missions of and allow access to parks. During a time of polarization and political infighting in Congress, ROPA has received bipartisan support including 329 members of the House of Representatives and 45 senators who have cosponsored the effort.
Lamar AlexanderEvery year, nearly 1 million visitors come to experience the beauty, history, and heritage of Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. In 2018, these visitors generated a $69 million economic impact to neighboring communities. However, failing infrastructure could make many popular spots in the park inaccessible. The same can be said for the additional 418 nation park sites in the United States that are managed by the National Park Service.