U.S. Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH) on Sept. 13 introduced a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would add roughly one acre of land to Ohio’s Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.
“The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park is a testament to Ohio’s rich aviation heritage first shown by the Wright brothers’ innovative spirit,” Rep. Turner said. “By making certain this historical landmark can operate effectively, we are honoring our commitment to preserving our past and promoting Dayton’s preeminent aviation legacy.”
Rep. Turner sponsored H.R. 5453 with lead original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH). If enacted, the bill would amend the Dayton Aviation Heritage Preservation Act of 1992 to adjust the boundary of the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park after expanding it by about an acre, according to the text of the bill.
U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and J.D. Vance (R-OH) introduced the companion bill, S. 2784, in their chamber.
“I appreciate the concerted effort with my fellow Ohio colleagues, Congressman Landsman and Senators Brown and Vance, to expand this landmark site,” said Rep. Turner. “Our work will positively impact our community.”
Under current law, the park contains four non-contiguous sites: the fourth building of the Wright Cycle Co., and the building that housed the Wright brothers’ print shop; the 1905 Wright Flyer and Wright Hall, both at the Wright Brothers National Museum; Huffman Prairie Flying Field on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base; and the Paul Laurence Dunbar house.
The park also includes residential properties on South Williams Street that were adjacent to the core parcel with the Wright Cycle Co., building, and newly constructed buildings in Carillon Historical Park adjacent to Wright Hall, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“It’s a privilege to represent a state with such important historical significance, and I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in our effort to ensure that the Dayton National Aviation Heritage Area has what it needs to continue to prosper,” Sen. Brown said.
The National Aviation Heritage Alliance supports the legislation.