WASHINGTON – Two bills affecting Maryland park areas moved forward in the Senate Wednesday.
One bill would change the name of Catoctin Mountain Park to Catoctin Mountain National Recreation Area, and the other would designate the Star-Spangled Banner Trail a national historic trail.
The Committee on Energy and Natural Resources voted unanimously to send the bills, both introduced by Sen. Paul Sarbanes, with minor amendments to the full Senate for a vote.
The purpose of the Catoctin Mountain National Recreation Area Designation Act, S-777, is to clearly identify the park as a national park and distinguish it from the nearby Cunningham Falls State Park.
“We have lots of confusion between us and the state park across the street,” said Mel Poole, superintendent of Catoctin Mountain Park. The park has been trying for around two years to change the name. A similar bill was passed the Senate in 2003, but failed in the House.
The bill to create the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, S-958, would mark the routes of British and American forces and major battles of the War of 1812. The trail runs through Maryland, Washington and a portion of Virginia.
Much of the proposed trail follows waterways and roads that are still in use today, said Bill Sharp, community planner for the National Park Service. Along the way, there are sites such as buildings and battlefields left from the war.
The National Park Service conducted a nearly two-year study to determine if there should be a national historic trail.
“Is there enough there? Is it suitable for interpretation and appreciation by the public?” Sharp asked. “The answer is yes.”
The designation of a national historic trail would allow for placing signs and educational materials and preservation of the areas.
In a written statement, Sarbanes applauded the committee’s actions and said he is hopeful the Catoctin bill will once again pass the Senate and the House as well.
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