Howard Dean: “I thank the chairman for the bipartisan support. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 7952, Valley Forge…”

“I thank the chairman for the bipartisan support. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 7952, Valley Forge Park Realignment Permit and Promise Act. Valley Forge National Historical Park is an important, extraordinarily historical landmark and natural space spanning 3,500 acres of Chester and Montgomery counties; my home. As the site of the 1777 and 1778 winter encampment of General George Washington and the Continental Army, Valley Forge is a living monument to our national story, where former Prussian officer Baron van Steuben trained the Continental Army, transforming them into a more cohesive, unified, and modern fighting force. It is a symbol of our Nation's resilience and revolutionary spirit. As part of a broader effort to develop and enhance the area around Valley Forge National Historical Park, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is working to reassign and repave a road that runs through the Park's entrance. And part of the project involves moving the current utilities under the current roadbed to the new roadbed. Unfortunately, while the park can permit the movement of other utilities, like electric and broadband, they are barred by statute from permitting the movement of the segment of natural gas pipeline also under the current roadbed. Without Federal intervention, the project could be further delayed, costing the American people time and resources. That is why this bill is in front of you today.…”