WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator JD Vance (R-OH) introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation along with Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Representatives Mike Turner (R-OH-10) and Greg Landsman (D-OH-1) to adjust the boundaries of Dayton Aviation National Historical Park at the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center complex to include an additional one acre that is critical to the safety & security, visitor experience, and long-range plan of the park.
“I’m proud to support this effort to bolster the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park,” said Senator Vance. “This legislation is a well-deserved acknowledgement of the great work the park does to recognize Ohio’s history as the birthplace of aviation.”
“Ohio’s pioneering spirit is reflected today in Dayton’s National Aviation Heritage Area. It’s a privilege to represent a state with such important historical significance, and I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in our effort to ensure that the Dayton National Aviation Heritage Area has what it needs to continue to prosper,” said Senator Brown.
“The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park is a testament to Ohio’s rich aviation heritage first shown by the Wright brothers’ innovative spirit,” said Congressman Turner. “By making certain this historical landmark can operate effectively, we are honoring our commitment to preserving our past and promoting Dayton’s preeminent aviation legacy. I appreciate the concerted effort with my fellow Ohio colleagues, Congressman Landsman and Senators Brown and Vance, to expand this landmark site. Our work will positively impact our community.”
“Thousands of people visit the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park every year to learn about the Birthplace of Aviation,” said Congressman Landsman. “This legislation is essential to making sure the park can operate efficiently, allowing children and families to better experience this historic landmark in Southwest Ohio.”
This center is located just west of downtown Dayton and tells the story of Orville and Wilbur Wright and the African American poet, Paul Laurence Dunbar. According to the National Park Service, which manages the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park and its Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center, the Center is one of two visitor centers operated by the park in Dayton, Ohio.
This boundary adjustment is supported at the local level by park partner, Wright Dunbar Inc., park legislated partner Aviation Trail Inc., and the Wright-Dunbar Neighborhood Association. The National Aviation Heritage Alliance (NAHA) and Air Camp USA also support this request.
“The proactive legislation to adjust the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park’s boundaries not only safeguards this historic place, but also enhances the visitor experience by ensuring ample, safe parking and access. On behalf of the National Aviation Heritage Alliance board of trustees and myself, I commend Senator Brown for his commitment to both our aviation heritage and our national parks,” said Mackensie Wittmer, Executive Director, National Aviation Heritage Area.
“Wright Dunbar, Inc. and the Wright Dunbar Business District Association supports the upcoming legislation to extend the boundaries of the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. This will ensure safe and accessible parking for NPS visitors and business patrons. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to the historic Wright Dunbar commercial business district,” said Erica Hubler, Director of Real Estate, Wright Dunbar, Inc.
Read the bill here. Read more from the Dayton Daily News here.
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