Success! Both Indiana Senators Jim Banks and Todd Young cosponsored the America the Beautiful Act (S.1547) recently introduced this year. This bipartisan bill provides funding to protect and restore the nation’s most important natural and cultural resources within national parks, and ensures that heritage sites within national parks remain resilient and accessible for future generations to visit and enjoy.

When people think of Indiana Dunes National Park, they often picture sandy beaches and towering dunes. But tucked among these natural wonders is another treasure — a collection of historic buildings that tell the story of the region’s cultural, industrial, and community heritage. From the century-old structures of the Bailly Homestead to the historic Good Fellow Lodge (located at the Dunes Learning Center), these buildings connect us to the people and history that shaped Northwest Indiana. 

The National Park Service works to preserve these buildings, but unfortunately, many of these sites are in urgent need of restoration. With limited resources spread across trail upkeep, habitat restoration, and visitor services, historic preservation often competes for funding. Without sufficient funding, these irreplaceable structures could be lost forever. 

It is vital that the America the Beautiful Act passes to continue funding to protect these important historical buildings. Save the Dunes is encouraged to see widespread bipartisan support from Indiana’s representatives for the America the Beautiful Act. This collaboration reflects a shared dedication to safeguarding the Indiana Dunes for future generations. United Indiana leadership strengthens the prospects for securing this essential funding to advance critical conservation and historic preservation initiatives within our national park!