Chamber News

Patrick County Makes Proclamation-75th Anniversary of Blue Ridge Parkway

Patrick County, VA government made a declaration, recognizing the 75th Anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway at their last monthly meeting in August.

75th ANNIVERSARY OF THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY WHEREAS, the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway joins Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks and was built over a 52-year period from September of 1935 until its completion in 1987; and WHEREAS, the Blue Ridge Parkway has remained the most visited unit in the National Park Service system since the 1940s and contributes to the region’s prosperity, bringing more than $2.3 billion annually to the local economies; and WHEREAS, the Parkway is one of the most biologically diverse places in the temperate portion of our planet, containing more species of trees than all of Europe, a number of protected species of plants, and hundreds of historic structures; and WHEREAS, the Blue Ridge Parkway shall continue its legacy by developing and sharing engaging information about the importance of this exceptional natural and cultural resource, involving local communities through events that focus attention on the history and stewardship of this treasure, and advancing a new generation of advocates who embrace Parkway values, speak out regarding future challenges, and actively work for a sustainable and healthy Blue Ridge Parkway; and WHEREAS, the Parkway is also home to hundreds of historic structures and is a place where visitors come to make memories and enjoy the recreational opportunities that abound there; and NOW, THEREFORE, WE the Patrick County Board of Supervisors, on August 23, 2010 do hereby recognize the 75th ANNIVERSARY OF THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA and we call this observance to the attention of all our citizens. ______Karl Von Weiss_________________________ Chairman of the Board