Faso-Sponsored Legislation to Support FDR National Historic Site Passes House in Bipartisan Vote

Press Release

Congressman John Faso (R-Kinderhook), today highlighted the House-passage of H.R. 5420, the FDR Historic Preservation Act. This legislation, which was approved by the House Natural Resources Committee earlier in September, authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to acquire approximately 89 acres of land directly adjacent to the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site. The measure, which allows the use of donated funds to purchase the parcel, was passed by a vote of 394 to 15.

"The FDR National Historic Site is not only important to the cultural heritage of our area, but is a vital component to our local economy because it draws nearly 200,000 annual visitors to the region who eat in family restaurants and support local small businesses" said Faso. "I am pleased the House demonstrated overwhelming support for my legislation and one of our most cherished historic sites."

"The FDR House is a landmark that has helped to fundamentally shape our local community and the passage of this bill will help to ensure that it is preserved for generations to come," said State Senator Sue Serino. "We extend our thanks to Congressman Faso and Scenic Hudson for championing this important piece of legislation."

Background:

In 2014, Scenic Hudson received by bequest from Gerald Morgan an 89-acre property adjacent to the FDR National Historic Site. Except for a small house and outbuilding, the site is undeveloped. The property is widely regarded as the gateway to the National Historic Site, protecting views and establishing the historical context for visitors.

Acquiring this property will also allow the National Park Service more flexibility for property maintenance by allowing NPS to move some of its maintenance operations from a historic carriage house to a more permanent garage location on the property.

H.R. 5420 was introduced in March 2018.

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