Lawmakers seek $75 million for Blue Ridge Parkway

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Federal lawmakers from North Carolina and Virginia are seeking $75 million to acquire and preserve land surrounding the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Four senators and four representatives say they are proposing legislation authorizing the National Park Service to buy up to 50,000 acres surrounding the road.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. The road stretches 469 miles across North Carolina and Virginia and attracts nearly 20 million visitors each year.

North Carolina Sens. Kay Hagan and Richard Burr say the legislation will help preserve the parkway for future generations.

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