Joyce helps pass lands package to safeguard Ohio canals, jobs, tourism

U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce (R-OH) last week voted to support a sweeping lands management package that includes provisions to support the Ohio and Erie Canalway National Heritage Area.

“This legislation authorizes increased funding for the historic Ohio and Erie Canalway, ensuring this National Heritage Area can continue to support thousands of Ohioan jobs and bring economic development to our state,” Rep. Joyce said.

S. 47 on Tuesday passed the U.S. House of Representatives, 363-62, previously passed the U.S. Senate, 92-8, and now heads to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

Rep. Joyce also on Feb. 26 voted to amend a name change for S. 47, previously the Natural Resources Management Act, which now will be known as the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act. Dingell, the longest-serving member of Congress in U.S. history, died in February. The House approved the name change of S. 47 in House Concurrent Resolution 21, which the Senate passed on Feb. 27 by unanimous consent.

“I was proud to support S. 47 and the investment it makes to ensure jobs, recreation, tourism and economic development can continue to thrive in northeast Ohio,” said Rep. Joyce.

S. 47 ensures the Ohio and Erie Canalway National Heritage Area — which spans more than 100 miles between New Philadelphia and Cleveland, Ohio, and supports some 4,200 jobs — will continue to receive federal funding.

Additionally, under S. 47, the spending cap for the area’s funding will be increased, according to the congressman’s office, which noted that the canalway had received congressional funding through 2021, but risked reaching the funding cap.

Dan Rice, president and CEO of the Ohio and Erie Canalway Coalition, said the funding cap increase will support the coalition’s continued development there, as well as allow it to activate and maintain the Towpath Trail and connector trails, preserve historic buildings, conserve natural areas, and present educational programs.

“We are extremely grateful to Congressman Joyce for his tremendous vision and support for the Ohio and Erie Canalway and Towpath Trail, and all members of the Ohio delegation, as we celebrate our heritage, promote stewardship and stimulate community and create a legacy for future generations,” Rice said.

“As the ranking member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies, I look forward to continuing my work to protect and preserve the Ohio and Erie Canalway National Heritage Area and other national treasures,” Rep. Joyce said.