Bruce F. Vento: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3516, introduced by my colleague on the Natural Resources Committee, Representative Nathan Deal…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3516, introduced by my colleague on the Natural Resources Committee, Representative Nathan Deal, increases the level of funding authorized to assist the State of Georgia in relocating a highway corridor currently crossing the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. The park, which was established in 1890, was the first of the national military parks, and has been closely maintained in its original state. Most of the historic road system that existed in 1863 remains largely intact with the exception of LaFayette Road--a crucial artery of the battle which has since become better known as Highway 27, a major north-south commuter route. Legislation enacted with the 100th Congress (Public Law 100-211) authorized $30 million in Federal funds to assist the State of Georgia in relocating the stretch of highway to an area outside the park, with the Federal contribution totaling 75 percent of the total cost of the project. H.R. 3516, as amended, would increase that amount to $45 million.”