U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann has introduced the bipartisan Benton MacKaye National Scenic Trail Feasibility Study Act. This legislative effort seeks to authorize a study that could lead to the designation of a 287-mile trail spanning Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina as a National Scenic Trail. The trail, mostly on federal land, would be managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Senator Thom Tillis has introduced a similar bill in the Senate.
Fleischmann expressed his enthusiasm about the effort, stating, “I am proud to lead this effort and work with my bipartisan colleagues in the House and Senate to designate the beautiful Benton MacKaye Trail as a National Scenic Trail. The Benton MacKaye Trail is an invaluable part of my district in East Tennessee that thousands of Tennesseans and Americans hike each year, and the trail connects some of the most beautiful and pristine parts of Tennessee with Georgia and North Carolina.” He further urged his colleagues to expedite the bill through Congress and to the President.
Congressman Steve Cohen also articulated his support for the proposal, saying, “The Benton MacKaye trail is deserving of consideration as a National Scenic Trail. I’m pleased to join my fellow Tennessean Congressman Fleischmann and Senators Tillis and Warnock on legislation to do just that.” He highlighted that national designation could boost tourism along the trail’s 287-mile stretch.
Bob Cowdrick, President of the Benton MacKaye Trail Association, supported the initiative, “Completed in 2005, the Benton MacKaye Trail provides an exceptional opportunity for tens of thousands of people to get outdoors each year and experience the stunning beauty of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.” He emphasized the importance of the study in protecting the outdoor heritage, supporting local economies, and providing recreational opportunities.
Apart from Rep. Fleischmann, the bill, labeled H.R. 2768, has the backing of Representatives Steve Cohen (TN-09), Chuck Edwards (NC-11), and Lucy McBath (GA-06) in the House. Senators Ted Budd (R-NC) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA) have co-sponsored the Senate version with Senator Tillis.
