SE North Carolina News

Washington, D.C. — Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) has called upon the National Park Service (NPS) to designate the Blue Ridge Parkway as a National Historic Landmark. In a letter addressed to NPS Director Charles Sams III, Senator Budd expressed his strong support for the designation, stating, "Thank you for the steps you are taking to help designate the Blue Ridge Parkway as a National Historic Landmark. I write to express my strong support for designating the Blue Ridge Parkway as a National Historic Landmark."

Describing the significance of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Senator Budd highlighted its role as a cultural gateway for millions of Americans, spanning 469 miles through North Carolina. He pointed out popular sites along the Parkway, including Craggy Gardens, Mount Mitchell, Graveyard Fields, Black Balsam, Grandfather Mountain, and Devil’s Courthouse, noting that its distinction cannot be replicated elsewhere.

Furthermore, Senator Budd emphasized the economic benefits brought by the Parkway to Western North Carolina, with around 90 percent of the labor during its construction being sourced locally. He highlighted the Parkway's contribution to the region's economy, stating, "In 2022, over 15 million visitors spent nearly $1.3 billion in and around the communities near the Parkway."

In conclusion, Senator Budd urged the Department of Interior and the National Historic Landmarks Committee to recognize the Blue Ridge Parkway as a National Historic Landmark, stating, "On behalf of the people of North Carolina, I encourage the Department of Interior and the National Historic Landmarks Committee to designate the Blue Ridge Parkway as a National Historic Landmark. Thank you for your consideration. I stand ready to assist as we work to better appreciate the significance of the Blue Ridge Parkway to our nation."