(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Bowser issued the following statement on the passage of the Natural Resources Management Act (S. 47), which contained Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton’s bill to authorize the Mayor of Washington, DC and the Director of the National Park Service (NPS) to enter into cooperative management agreements (CMA) for the operation, maintenance, and management of NPS-owned properties in DC. The bill’s enactment will specifically allow for the planned Franklin Park Cooperative Management Agreement between the District, NPS, and the Downtown Business Improvement District. The legislation previously passed the U.S. Senate and will now go to the President’s desk for signature.
“As Washington, DC continues to thrive, we want to ensure that the many parks throughout our city – whether they’re on District land or federal land – reflect not only the history and culture of DC, but the grandeur of the nation’s capital. With the support of our federal partners, DC Government will now be able to make critical investments in Franklin Park and move forward with restoring this tremendous space for our residents, visitors, and businesses. In the process of reimagining Franklin Park, we will also be able to work with our community partners to create jobs, spur economic development, and create a new destination that will be enjoyed by local residents and visitors from around the world for years to come.
“Today, I am grateful for all of our partners in Congress, starting with Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, and the members of my team who have worked diligently to see this project through. Together, we will continue ensuring that underutilized spaces throughout our city are transformed to reflect the progress and strength of Washington, DC.”