Historic World War II Hangars to be Restored at Gateway National Recreation Area

“We are pleased to see bi-partisan support, in both the U.S. House and Senate, for H.R. 2606, a bill to expand an existing natural gas pipeline at Gateway National Recreation Area in New York, and look forward to the President signing it into law. We believe that this project will have minimal impact on land and water resources, will enhance the historical aspects of Gateway, address some critical environmental justice issues, and advance the 2009 New York State Energy Plan and New York City’s PlaNYC 2030 goals.

“NPCA and the surrounding communities have been working to protect and enhance Gateway National Recreation Area for many years and we are encouraged to see that support and fees from this pipeline will go directly to making significant improvements to the park, including restoring the historic World War II hangars for community use and enjoyment. The Path Forward, a public document that reflects these sentiments, was compiled through working with federal, state, and local partners and community members to capture their thoughts and vision for the future of Floyd Bennett Field at Gateway.

“We remain concerned about, and object to, the proposed placement of the metering and regulating facility inside the historic hangars at Floyd Bennett Field within Gateway National Recreation Area. We strongly believe that the metering station would be better sited on another location, one that is already a hard surface, but away from “Hanger Row.“

“With the significant damage recently caused by Superstorm Sandy, restoration efforts at the park could not come at a better time. We again would like to pause to reflect upon all the damage wrought on Gateway and its surrounding communities, as well as the National Park Service personnel stationed there.”

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About National Parks Conservation Association
Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than one million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org.