The U.S. House of Representatives today passed Rep. Luke Messer’s (IN-06) legislation to extend the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail into Indiana, along the Ohio River.
Messer’s bill, the Eastern Legacy Extension Act, would extend the trail approximately 1,200 miles by recognizing the route that Meriwether Lewis and William Clark took along the Ohio River in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and Illinois as part of their historic expedition from 1804-1806.
“The Lewis and Clark expedition is an important part of our Hoosier history, and the route they took along the Ohio River should be celebrated and preserved,†Messer said. “Officially recognizing this scenic trail will help promote tourism in Indiana and will ensure future generations can enjoy this part of our history.â€
The current Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail covers about 3,700 miles and runs through 11 states. Messer’s bill would extend it to 4,900 miles, running through 17 states.
Local governments in Jeffersonville, Clarksville and New Albany have already designated portions of the route as preservation areas. Messer said the designation by the federal government will help to preserve this scenic travel route.
VIDEO of Messer speaking on the House floor about his legislation can be found HERE.
