Norton Introduces Bill to Clarify that D.C. Can Work with NPS to Make Improvements to Franklin Park

Statement

Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) today introduced a bill to clarify that the District of Columbia has the authority to enter into cooperative management agreements (CMAs) with the National Park Service (NPS) to maintain and invest in NPS properties in the city. Norton said her legislation is particularly pressing because D.C. already has plans to enter into a CMA with NPS to assume operational jurisdiction of Franklin Park, a NPS park located in downtown D.C. Most D.C. neighborhood parks are owned by NPS. The legislation would remove any doubt that D.C., like states, can enter into CMAs with NPS.

"My bill is a gift to the federal government because D.C. and the private sector would be paying for the upgrading and upkeep of federal properties that have been neglected due to the failure of Congress to appropriately fund NPS," Norton said. "Now, the D.C. government has stepped up with the funding to put NPS parks to the highest and best use for which Congress intended. The local D.C. government is in the best position to work with NPS to provide the necessary resources and attention to neighborhood parks. Franklin Park is the perfect example where D.C. can fill the gap and make major improvements that will benefit D.C. residents and visitors to the city. My bill is not only uncontroversial; it is a gift Congress should be happy to receive."

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