Congresswoman Tenney Introduces Legislation to Declare the Finger Lakes as a National Heritage Area

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today introduced legislation that designates the Finger Lakes as a National Heritage Area. 

Additional original cosponsors include Congressman Joe Morelle (NY-25), Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23), and Congressman Anthony D'Esposito (NY-04). Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) led this legislation in the Senate.

National Heritage Areas (NHA) are established by Congress to “recognize a region’s natural, cultural, or historic significance.” Unlike national parks, NHA’s are large, populated living areas that collaborate with communities to determine how to make heritage relevant to local interests and needs. The counties included in the legislation are Cayuga, Chemung, Cortland, Livingston, Monroe, Onondaga, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne, and Yates.

“Spanning from Cayuga County to Livingston County, the Finger Lakes region boast a wealth of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a fitting candidate for designation as a National Heritage Area,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Securing this designation for the Finger Lakes will promote economic growth through tourism all while ensuring that the region’s rich history and stories are preserved for future generations to come. I am honored to have introduced this bill today and look forward to seeing our region receive the recognition it deserves.”

“The Finger Lakes region is a place where the past and the present converge in harmony, and a testament to the natural beauty of our area,” said Congressman Morelle. “It is a symbol of cultural significance deserving of recognition and I’m grateful to Rep. Tenney for supporting this designation. I look forward to working together ensuring the preservation of a Finger Lakes National Heritage site for generations to come.”

“The Finger Lakes Region is proud of our rich history and lasting impact on our nation, from supporting women’s suffrage to aiding the abolitionist movement," said Congressman Langworthy. "This legislation to create a Finger Lakes National Heritage Area will federally recognize our region’s historic significance, promoting tourism and preserving our stories for future generations.”

"For Livingston County, the Finger Lakes are not just our home, but a special place of natural beauty and cultural heritage that is interwoven throughout our community. The introduction of Congresswoman Tenney's house bill to establish the Finger Lakes National Heritage Area is a significant step toward acknowledging the importance of this region on a national scale. I strongly support this bill and believe it will further strengthen our collective commitment to stewardship and appreciation of the Finger Lakes region for generations to come,” said Chairman of the Livingston County Board of Supervisors, David LeFeber.

“The Finger Lakes area is a unique area with an abundance of historical events and locations, the scenic beauty of the area is exceptional and only seeing for yourself can you believe this exists so close to us. There are numerous events in our area from auto racing to historical celebrations. This area would make a great national heritage area,” said Chairman of the Wayne County Board of Supervisors Phil Eygnor.

“Cayuga County has a robust history and deserves national recognition for not only its natural beauty but its abundant legacy. From the birthplace of President Millard Fillmore, the homeplace and burial of Harriet Tubman, to the beautiful Cayuga Lake and Owasco Lake situated in the Finger Lakes region, I am thrilled to see steps being taken to deem our home a National Heritage Area,” said Chairman of the Cayuga County Legislature, David Gould.

“By designating the Finger Lakes as a National Heritage Area, we are working to create jobs and promote economic growth throughout the region. Thank you to Congresswoman Tenney for her steadfast leadership and diligent work advocating for our community in Congress and introducing this important legislation. I am eager to see the Finger Lakes as a National Heritage Area to protect our heritage for generations to come,” said Chairman of the Ontario County Board of Supervisors, Todd Campbell.

"Thank you Congresswoman Tenney for advocating on our behalf to promote the Finger Lakes National Heritage Area. Seneca County is rich in history & culture amidst stunning parks & lakes. We have been working hard at promoting our tourism & job-growth and the establishment of the Finger Lakes National Heritage Area will only further promote those & encourage our county's legacy & culture for our future,” said Chairman of the Seneca County Board of Supervisors, Michael Enslow.

“This designation is significant for our area, not only in the funding it could bring but also in the recognition that our Finger Lakes Area is a national treasure,” said Chairwoman of the Yates County Legislature, Leslie Church.

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