James M. Jeffords: “today I would like to spend a few minutes discussing an important provision in the highway bill before us. Section 4(f)…”

“today I would like to spend a few minutes discussing an important provision in the highway bill before us. Section 4(f) of the highway bill provides important protections for historic sites, parks, recreation areas, and wildlife and waterfowl refuges throughout the country. With the increasing demand for transportation projects, it is important that we not lose sight of our natural treasures. We need to balance the growing need for transportation with responsible stewardship of our history and natural resources. In my State of Vermont, we have a wealth of history and natural beauty. To see the wildlife that populate the Missisquoi Wildlife Refuge or the covered bridges used by our forefathers--is to experience a heritage that we all want preserved for future generations. Section 4(f) has helped preserve these treasures. The Revolutionary War site at Fort Vehemence on Route 7 in Pittsford, VT, was avoided as a result of 4(f). An excellent collection of historic metal truss bridges across the Connecticut River were rehabilitated, not replaced, as a result of 4(f). A road in the Danville Historic District was narrowed in order to keep the historic characteristics of the historic village because of 4(f). While constructing a new highway in Vermont, we have discovered a significant archeological site containing artifacts from Native Americans, providing us with a piece of history that until now was not known.…”