Laurels for the Blackstone....

[Little Star]

Exploited by factories for more than a century, the Blackstone River became so polluted that, by the 1970s, few thought it could ever be rescued. That the river and its surroundings are now on track to become a national park is profoundly gratifying. It is also heartening proof that, with enough determination, people can change things for the better.

The 45-mile-long Blackstone is the centerpiece of the proposed John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, a sprawling tract that includes cultural and historic sites as well as thousands of acres of unspoiled land. Near its southernmost point, in Pawtucket, it encompasses Slater Mill, considered the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. Congress could, as part of its vote on a defense bill, secure the national park designation, something pending as we write this.

http://www.providencejournal.com/opinion/editorials/20141212-laurels-for-the-blackstone.ece

[Galileo126]

1. I'm all for this...

Having been born and raised in Rhody, it would be cool to have a NP designation for this area. When I was in 9th grade, we took a field trip up to this area, and learned all about the history associated with the 1600-1700s Providence area (Slater Mill, Roger Williams, etc etc).

Very cool. I wish I could "vote" for this, but I am a Californian now. Been so for 25 yrs. However, I'm off to Rhody in 9 days on holiday... I will mention this to my family. Maybe they can push this idea a little more forward.

[Little Star]

2. I'm all for it too.....

I lived right over the RI line in MA for most of my adult life. Could almost walk to Blackstone, MA and/or Woonsocket, RI. I'm still in MA but not that close to RI anymore. Well, I couldn't walk there anyway

I know some folks who have been working on this for many a year. My fingers are crossed.