BAINBRIDGE – This week, Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14) introduced bipartisan legislation to extend and increase the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area’s funding authorization. Specifically, the bill, which Joyce introduced alongside Representatives Tim Ryan (OH-13), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) and Anthony Gonzalez (OH-16), extends the funding authorization for 15 years, to 2036, and increases the funding cap by $10 million. 

 

“I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to help the historic Ohio and Erie Canalway National Heritage Area continue to support thousands of jobs through public-private partnerships, bring economic development to the Buckeye State and build a legacy for future generations,” said Joyce. “For every $1 of federal funding, it leverages $3 of private, local and state funding. The investment this legislation makes will ensure jobs, recreation, tourism and economic development can continue to thrive in Northeast Ohio.”

 

“We are extremely grateful to Congressman Joyce, along with Congressman Ryan, Congresswoman Kaptur, Congressman Gonzalez and Senator Brown and Senator Portman, for their tremendous support for the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area,” said Dan Rice, Co-Executive Director of the Ohio & Erie Canalway. “Through the reauthorization of the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area, we shall continue to develop and maintain the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, preserve historical resources and leverage private, local and state funding in northeast Ohio. Special thanks to Congressman Joyce for his continued strong leadership and support for the Ohio & Erie Canalway and Towpath Trail.”

 

The Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area spans more than 110 miles between New Philadelphia and Cleveland. It draws over 2.5 million visitors to the region annually, celebrating the natural, historical and recreational resources along the route. Working in partnership with 200 local governments, corporations, park agencies, foundations, planning organizations, non-profit organizations and residents, the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area plans to develop the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail and Connector Trails, preserve historic buildings, present educational programs and stimulate community and economic development. According to a 2015 community and economic development study, the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area supports 4,200 jobs and generates $34.7 million in tax revenue. 

 

 

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