WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today applauded the president’s signing of the Fort Scott National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act, which was included in S. 47, the Natural Resources Management Act, a package of over 100 bills relating to public lands, natural resources and water projects.

“I am pleased that the Fort Scott National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act is law of the land, making certain that our state’s history will be kept alive for future generations,” said Sen. Moran. “I have enjoyed working with Fort Scott community leaders over the past several years to secure this boundary modification – it is because of their continued dedication and enthusiasm that this bill has finally crossed the finish line. I know that the Fort Scott National Historic Site will remain a point of pride for Kansans, and safe and enjoyable for visitors.”

“The Fort Scott National Historic Site is the heart of our community,” said City Manager Dave Martin. “We appreciate the support of President Trump, Senator Moran, Congressman Watkins, former Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins, and the many other people that have worked on this expansion over the years. It’s a proud moment for the City of Fort Scott to see this accomplished and we look forward to the growth of the Fort created by this legislation.”

“The Fort Scott community acknowledges the diligence executed by U.S. Senator Jerry Moran to author legislation as the Fort Scott National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act, included in S. 47, and see it through to passing and the signature of President Trump,” said Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lindsay Madison. “This is a great milestone for our site to protect and preserve the adjacent Lunette Blair Civil War Block House, and to acquire additional property to shelter staff and visitors in emergency weather conditions. The National Historic Site hosts over 25,000 visitors annually of all ages that will benefit from these improvements. Our community values the Fort as the cornerstone of our city, and it is impressive for the site to gain recognition on a national level.”

“We greatly appreciate the fulfillment of this milestone, as our Friends group continues to support the mission and programs at the National Historic Site,” said Friends of Fort Scott National Historic Site’s Reed Hartford.

The Fort Scott National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act will improve the Fort Scott National Historic Site in Fort Scott, Kan. by allowing the care of the Lunette Blair Civil War Block House to be transferred to the National Park Service (NPS). Additionally, it will modify the site’s boundaries so future improvements can be made to enrich the quality of visitors’ experiences. Site managers indicated the location lacks an adequate public emergency shelter. Specifically, a shelter is needed in the event of severe weather to protect volunteers and regular visitors, such as local school children. The potential buildings in the site’s new boundaries could be used for other functions, such as an on-site storage area for artifacts currently stored outside the community due to space limitations, or as an educational center for visitors and local schools.

Items to note:

• On September 29, 2015, Sen. Moran introduced legislation to improve the Fort Scott National Historic Site.
• On January 23, 2017, Sen. Moran reintroduced legislation to improve the Fort Scott National Historic Site.
• Last month, the Senate passed the Fort Scott National Historic Site Boundary Modification Act as part of the Natural Resources Management Act on a 92-8 vote.
   

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