Photo: Tom Brenner / Getty Images News / Getty Images
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer visited Saratoga County on Monday (November 17) to advocate for the renewal of the Legacy Restoration Fund. Standing at the historic Saratoga Battlefield, Schumer introduced the "America the Beautiful Act," which aims to restore and expand the expired fund. This fund, initially established under the Great American Outdoors Act in 2020, has provided nearly $2 billion nationwide for national park maintenance, including over $6 million to the Saratoga National Historic Park.
The Legacy Restoration Fund expired last month, creating a $14 million maintenance backlog at the Saratoga park, which played a pivotal role in the Revolutionary War. The park attracts more than 100,000 visitors annually, generating approximately $9 million in economic impact for the Capital Region. Schumer emphasized the importance of preserving such historic sites, especially as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026.
The "America the Beautiful Act" proposes to renew the fund through 2033, increasing its allocation to $2 billion annually. Schumer argued that this funding is crucial for both historic preservation and tourism, noting that there is $23 billion in deferred maintenance across national parks. Leslie Morlock, superintendent of the Saratoga National Historical Park, stressed the importance of the funding for maintaining infrastructure and preserving history for future generations.
Schumer's push for the legislation comes as New York prepares for upcoming semi quincentennial events, including the Knox Trail 250. The senator highlighted the need to ensure that parks have the necessary resources to showcase America's heritage and history.