This week Congressman Kurt Schrader (D-OR) introduced a bill, H.R. 4081, requesting a feasibility study on establishing the Willamette Falls National Heritage Area for the Oregon City/West Linn greater area. Before a region can be designated a National Heritage Area, a feasibility study must be completed to determine if a project would preserve the history, promote tourism and conserve the natural and historical features of the designated area.
This week Congressman Kurt Schrader (D-OR) introduced a bill, H.R. 4081, requesting a feasibility study on establishing the Willamette Falls National Heritage Area for the Oregon City/West Linn greater area. Before a region can be designated a National Heritage Area, a feasibility study must be completed to determine if a project would preserve the history, promote tourism and conserve the natural and historical features of the designated area.
“As the first incorporated city west of the Rocky Mountains, and the end of the ‘Oregon Trail,’ the Oregon City region is steeped in history and has drawn visitors from across the world,” said Schrader. “Establishing a National Heritage Area would not only preserve the unique history of the West Linn/Oregon City community but also promote tourism that will bring much needed jobs to our region.”
"Creating a National Heritage Area in this unique and historic corridor would enhance, support and protect the Willamette Falls area, fulfilling a long-standing vision for our communities,” said Oregon City Mayor Alice Norris. “I want to thank Congressman Schrader for beginning this process that has the opportunity to bring real benefits to our region.”
A National Heritage Area is a site designated by Congress to encourage historic preservation of an area that has a rich historical, cultural, or social history to it. It also must include outstanding areas to conserve natural, cultural, and historical features as well as have exceptional opportunities to educate the general public. Currently, there are 49 National Heritage Areas or National Heritage Corridors. While the federal government and the National Park Service provide an advisory role to a National Heritage Area, they are administered by state governments, non-profit organizations, or private corporations. The establishment of a National Heritage Area has shown to dramatically increase tourism to a designated location.
Support
The feasibility project and National Heritage Area has received broad support from the community including the following cities, groups, businesses, and organizations:
City of Oregon City
City of West Linn
The Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde
Clackamas Heritage Partners
Willamette Falls Heritage Foundation
Clackamas County
Oregon State Parks
Ice Age Floods Institute
Portland General Electric
One Willamette River Coalition
Clackamas County Arts Alliance
West Linn Paper Company
Blue Heron Paper Mill
Clackamas County Tourism and Cultural Affairs
