Macon Times

U.S. Representatives Austin Scott and Sanford D. Bishop Jr., along with Senators Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock, have reintroduced a bipartisan bill aiming to establish Ocmulgee Mounds as Georgia's first National Park and Preserve. This legislative effort seeks to recognize and safeguard the historic and cultural importance of the Ocmulgee Mounds and surrounding areas in Middle Georgia.

"Establishing the Ocmulgee Mounds and surrounding areas as Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve remains a top bipartisan initiative for all lawmakers and stakeholders involved," stated Rep. Austin Scott, emphasizing the site's local significance.

Rep. Bishop highlighted the cultural heritage and potential tourism opportunities for Georgia: "I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this bipartisan bill. By establishing the Ocmulgee Mounds as Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve, we are highlighting over 17,000 years of history and culture as well as welcoming people from across the country to enjoy Georgia’s natural beauty."

Senator Ossoff reflected on prior legislative progress, stating, "We made unprecedented progress last Congress toward creating Georgia’s first ever National Park. I look forward to working alongside Congressman Scott, Senator Reverend Warnock, Congressman Bishop, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, and local leaders to successfully establish Georgia’s first national park."

Senator Warnock echoed the community-wide support: "Ocmulgee Mounds is a living testament to our intertwined histories and a robust source of economic and cultural vitality, so I’m proud to continue supporting the bipartisan, bicameral efforts to establish Ocmulgee Mounds as Georgia’s first National Park and Preserve."

The Ocmulgee Mounds, with continuous human habitation spanning over 12,000 years, hold significant historical value, particularly for the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. They regard the mounds as a critical part of their heritage. David Hill, Principal Chief of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, expressed support: "The opportunity to make the historic Ocmulgee Mounds a national park is so important to us because we have been included, we have been shown the respect of collaboration, and because of that we can feel confident that the living history that will be told here is authentic and has the power to elevate Georgia forever."

Seth Clark, Macon Mayor Pro Tempore and Executive Director of the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative, highlighted the proposed park's economic and security benefits: "I cannot overstate the importance of this legislation to our region, state, and country. [...] We’re grateful for the continued bipartisan dedication of the Georgia delegation."

Brig. Gen. (ret) John C. Kubinec of the 21st Century Partnership noted the significance for Robins Air Force Base: "Preserving the undeveloped lands within the Ocmulgee River Corridor is critical to safeguarding Robins Air Force Base from incompatible land use, ensuring we can sustain our national security missions."

Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber, mentioned the long-standing advocacy efforts leading up to this point. "Representatives Scott and Bishop with their bipartisan leadership and admirable partnership with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation have assembled a broad statewide coalition," said Clark, emphasizing the civic journey beginning in 1933.

Jessica Walden of the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce described the initiative as a pivotal economic priority. "Being home to Georgia’s first and only national park and preserve will create a better business climate, allow for lower taxes, and create thousands of good paying, sustainable jobs," she stated.

The bill is also backed by 11 other members of Georgia's Congressional Delegation. The full text of the legislation is publicly accessible for those seeking more comprehensive information on this initiative.