Stephen A. Hansen

The Committee of 100 shares the concern with others that the C&O Canal is in need of attention. Enhancing access and the ways the canal is experienced, interpreted, enjoyed and available for this and future generations is obviously important for its continued survival. But the proposed enhancements cannot come at the expense of preserving what is left of the original Canal or disguising or so overwhelming it to the point that visitors will not get a sense of what it was originally. A better balance is required. These are the basic tenants of the National Park Service itself in caring for all the historic and natural treasures in its care. The C&O Canal must not be an exception. Future generations are counting on us.