Bush helps N.J. preserve its heritage

The National Heritage Areas Act of 2006, which contains then-Sen. Jon Corzine's Crossroads of the Revolution legislation, was signed into law by President George W. Bush on Oct. 13.

"This bill is a tribute to the patriots who fought and died to establish a country that values freedom and individual rights," Gov. Corzine said. "We now have the necessary tools to protect those places that commemorate their sacrifice."

According to a press release, to help preserve New Jersey's Revolutionary War sites, this legislation would establish a Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area, linking about 250 sites in 15 counties. This designation would authorize $10 million of federal funds to assist preservation, recreational and educational efforts by the state, county and local governments as well as private cultural and tourism groups.

According to the press release, this legislation recognizes the critical role New Jersey played during the American Revolution. New Jersey was the site of nearly 300 military engagements that helped determine the course of the nation's history.

Many of these locations, such as the site where George Washington made his historic crossing of the Delaware River, are well known and preserved. Others, such as the Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Manalapan and Freehold Township, and New Bridge Landing in River Edge, are less well known throughout the state and are threatened by development or in critical need of funding for rehabilitation.

According to the press release, National Heritage areas create significant economic opportunities. They provide local communities with incentives and resources to work to increase regional tourism by highlighting historic sites and cultural events.