I n response to “Commercial, Nonprofit Uses Sought for Fort Hancock” (The Hub, July 4), the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) strongly supports the recommendations made by the Fort Hancock 21st Century Committee for a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) from potential development partners.
The current condition of the historic buildings at Fort Hancock at Gateway National Recreation Area requires immediate attention before they crumble into disrepair, and the RFEI offers appropriate renovation and reuse opportunities for the buildings.
An RFEI is the most efficient way to gauge the interest of the commercial and nonprofit communities, and can spark new ideas to help save the more than 35 historic structures at Fort Hancock. The RFEI would support the National Park Service’s mission for protecting and preserving the historical significance of the site and its current tenants and partners, while expanding the reach to include new adaptive and appropriate redevelopment opportunities. National parks are economic engines critical to supporting the livelihood of businesses and communities across the country for local communities. Every dollar invested in the National Park Service generates $10 in economic activity. In 2011, Gateway National Recreation Area was one of the top 10 most-visited national parks, with nearly 8 million visitors.
We urge others to support efforts to revitalize and preserve Fort Hancock for future generations to experience and enjoy.
Oliver Spellman
Northeast Senior Program
Manager
National Parks Conservation
Association
Northeast Regional Office
New York City