California Republicans U.S. Reps. David Valadao and Vince Fong on Tuesday unveiled legislation that aims to restore two community spaces in the City of Tulare, Calif., situated in their Central Valley districts.
Because both of their districts overlap within the city — Rep. David Valadao represents the west and south sides of Tulare, while Rep. Fong represents the northeast side of the city — they teamed up to introduce the Tulare Youth Recreation and Women’s History Enhancement Act, H.R. 8913, to help the city resolve old railroad land restrictions and upgrade the City Skate Park and the historic Tulare Women’s Club.
“For years, the Tulare skate park and the historic Tulare Women’s Club have been important community spaces, but outdated ownership restrictions have prevented the city from making long-overdue improvements,” said bill sponsor Rep. Valadao.
Both parcels were originally set aside for railroad construction more than 150 years ago, and the congressman said that it’s past time to transfer ownership from Union Pacific Railroad back to the city so the facilities can be properly upgraded for future generations.
“I appreciate Union Pacific’s partnership in helping move this solution forward, and I look forward to seeing these sites continue to serve Tulare families and preserve the community’s history for years to come,” he added.
Since originally being retained in 1866 for railroad construction, the two parcels have remained subject to federal reversionary interests, limiting the city’s ability to improve and develop the sites.
H.R. 8913 would authorize the conveyance of and remove the reversionary interest of the United States in the two city parcels. By doing so, the legislation would enable the city to expand youth recreational opportunities and enhance efforts to commemorate women’s history in Tulare, the lawmakers say.
“Tulare is a community with a proud history, strong values and a bright future, and I’m honored to support this legislation alongside my friend Congressman Valadao,” said bill cosponsor Rep. Fong. “The Tulare Youth Recreation and Women’s History Enhancement Act invests in the people and places that make our community stronger by eliminating barriers so Tulare can celebrate its history and enrich the lives of residents for generations to come. It’s a win for our community and our history and I’m proud to support it.”