Press Releases

Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) introduced legislation yesterday to extend the Augusta Canal’s authorization as a National Heritage Area.

“Built in 1845, the Augusta Canal is the nation's only industrial power canal still in use for its original purpose – making it worthy of the National Heritage Area designation,” said Congressman Allen. “Not only is the history of the canal an important reminder of Augusta’s impact during the Industrial Revolution, it remains vital to economic development today. From helping to supply power for the city to providing trails and canal waters to explore recreationally, the canal is a key part of our community and I’m proud to introduce legislation to extend its authorization as a National Heritage Area.”

“I applaud Congressman Allen’s effort to extend the authorization of the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area (ACNHA),” said Dayton Sherrouse, Executive Director, Augusta Canal National Heritage Area. “Its impact on Augusta’s economy has been significant and is now one of the most visited tourist attractions in our area. We have been able to leverage, on average, five times the amount of the modest funding we have received through this designation. Extending our authorization from 2021 to 2036 will enable us to continue the successes of this new model within the National Park Service.”

Congressman Allen introduces legislation to reauthorize the Augusta Canal as a National Heritage Area.

Background on the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area (ACNHA):
The ACNHA is one of 55 areas designated by the Congress as National Heritage Areas. All are involved in preserving and telling different stories of national significance related to conserving natural, historic, and cultural resources. The ACNHA’s mission ranges from conservation to economic development. The Augusta Canal received its National Heritage Area designation in 1996. Congressman Allen’s bill would extend its authorization, which is currently set to expire in 2021, until 2036.

Projects Completed by the ACNHA:

• Preservation & Economic Development: By assuming operation of three hydroelectric plants on the Canal, the ACNHA has preserved and enabled the private redevelopment of three former abandoned textile mills by providing below market rate power.
• Tourism & Recreation Development: Construction and operation of an award winning Discovery Center, which received awards from former Governor Deal in 2011 and 2016; construction of 15 miles of multiuse trails, including three bridges. Construction and operation of two replicas of the historic Petersburg Tour Boats.
• Education: The ACNHA welcomes over 9,000 students a year to the Discovery Center for training in the areas of history, social studies and environmental science.

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