BACKGROUND:
The Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act, introduced as H.R. 5987 by Congressman Doc Hastings and S. 3300 by Senator Jeff Bingaman, would establish a national historical park with sites in New Mexico, Tennessee, and Washington to preserve, interpret and make accessible buildings, locations, and artifacts related to the development of the atomic bomb. 

“The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) applauds the bipartisan leadership for enhancing and preserving our country’s history, through the House and Senate introduction of legislation to establish a Manhattan Project National Historical Park .”

“The House and Senate versions of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park Act were introduced to help preserve, interpret, and make accessible the sites in Washington, New Mexico, and Tennessee related to the development of the atomic bomb. These national park sites will provide unparalleled opportunities to improve public understanding of the Manhattan Project, the legacy of the United States’ splitting of the atom, and the national and global impacts associated with harnessing the atom.”

 “The development of the atomic bomb is an American story of ingenuity and scientific discovery, an achievement that has been referred to as the single most significant event of the 20th century. Splitting the atom led to new advancements in medicine and physics, yet it also produced grave moral questions and decisions with enormous human and environmental costs.” 

“As a reflection of our country’s history and heritage, the National Park System commemorates some of our crowning achievements, as well as some of our most controversial and difficult events, allowing our generation, our children, and grandchildren to learn from such events. The American public has already demonstrated strong support for Manhattan Project national park sites, according to a recent Special Resource Study by the National Park Service.”

“On behalf of our partner organizations such as the Atomic Heritage Foundation, the National Trust for Historic Preservation and members and supporters across the country, we look forward to working with Senator Bingaman and Congressman Hastings to see successful passage of their Manhattan Project legislation.”