News Release

Update on philanthropic partnership with Georgetown Heritage

Date: March 5, 2024
Contact: Christiana Hanson, 301-491-6265

On February 28, 2024, the National Park Service (NPS) notified Georgetown Heritage of the termination of its philanthropic partnership agreement effective April 29, 2024. This does not change the operation of the canal boat in Georgetown. The District of Columbia government funded the construction of the canal boat and Georgetown Heritage owns the boat, which it operates under a different agreement with the NPS.  

The NPS remains firmly committed to our mission in Georgetown and all along the canal’s 184.5 miles. Later this month, the NPS will begin a $12.7 million NPS-funded project in Georgetown. This project continues the NPS’s work to preserve the canal and provide authentic, active places for people to enjoy now and in the future. Since 2016, the NPS has invested approximately $25 million in Georgetown. 

Terminating a philanthropic agreement is unusual and happens only after exhausting all other avenues to try to resolve the issues. As we move forward, the NPS will expand its work in Georgetown with longstanding park philanthropic partner C&O Canal Trust and will continue to foster partnerships with organizations that share similar missions, values, and goals. The NPS takes seriously its responsibility to comply with all federal historic preservation and park management laws and regulations and remains steadfast in our dedication to the American people.

-NPS-

Preserving America’s early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth. Operating for nearly 100 years, the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River as coal, lumber and agricultural products floated down the waterway to market. Today it endures as a pathway to discover history, nature, and fun with friends and family. 

Learn more at www.nps.gov/choh.