Senator Gillibrand Calls For $250 Million To Preserve Our History For The 250th Anniversary Of America

Senator Gillibrand Calls For $250 Million To Preserve Our History For The 250th Anniversary Of America

Jun 5, 2026

Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, stood in Columbia County to announce a major bipartisan push for historic preservation funding. In a letter to Senate Interior Appropriations Subcommittee leadership, Gillibrand called for $250 million to be allocated to the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF), which is overseen by the National Park Service (NPS), in celebration of America's upcoming 250th anniversary.

As the nation's largest dedicated source of funding for historic preservation, the HPF delivers grants to restore endangered landmarks, revitalize historic downtowns, and support State Historic Preservation Offices. Gillibrand emphasized that directing these federal resources straight into local communities will be critical to unlocking regional economic growth and creating local jobs. The funding is poised to have a monumental impact on the Hudson Valley. Specifically, it could offer critical support for the Hudson River Historic District, the largest National Historic Landmark District on the U.S. mainland, which is home to 1,869 unique historic structures and sites that could qualify for preservation assistance.

"The Hudson Valley is home to so much American history - from Revolutionary War sites to one of the birthplaces of modern American art," said Senator Gillibrand. "As we approach our nation's 250th anniversary, we must ensure that the communities who safeguard this history have the resources they need. Securing increased funding for the Historic Preservation Fund isn't just about honoring our past; it is an investment in our future. These grants flow directly onto our main streets and create good-paying local jobs while revitalizing regional economies."

"To preserve our historic structures is to preserve our city's story for future generations," said Hudson Mayor Joseph Ferris. "Thanks to critical New York State historic preservation funding, the Pocketbook Factory has been brought back to life. I applaud Senator Kirsten Gillibrand's push for an additional $250 million in federal historic preservation funding. This increase in funding will give incredible historic landmarks and structures a second-life. These programs do more than preserve history, they serve as an opportunity to create meaningful local jobs and drive economic growth."

"The Pocketbook Hotel shows that old buildings aren't just history-they create jobs and boost our economy," said Mike Tucker, President & CEO of Columbia Economic Development Corporation. "It was great working with the young developers on this project, but federal support in the form of Historic Preservation Tax Credits are what actually makes these big dreams a reality."

The Historic Preservation Fund enables communities like Hudson to restore historic main streets, stabilize aging public infrastructure, and elevate underrepresented histories, including Indigenous and African American heritage sites.

Ahead of the 2026 Semiquincentennial, the proposed $250 million appropriation would ensure that historic treasures across New York State and the nation are being preserved and revitalized.

The full letter can be read HERE.

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