TRENTON – The Senate passed legislation sponsored by Senator Andrew Zwicker that would designate June 25 of each year as ‘Delaware and Raritan Canal Day’ to celebrate and honor the canal’s cultural, historical, and environmental significance.
The Delaware and Raritan Canal, also known as the D&R Canal, is a key waterway that stretches approximately 70 miles across New Jersey, connecting the Delaware River at Bordentown to the Raritan River at New Brunswick. In 1972, the D&R Canal was designated a New Jersey Historical Site. A year later, the waterway was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, indicating its cultural and historical importance to New Jersey and the nation.
The canal system was further recognized for its environmental significance in 1974 after the Legislature passed the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Law. This legislation established the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park and created the Delaware and Raritan Canal Commission, the latter of which continues to preserve much of the canal’s original structure and surrounding natural areas.
“The Delaware and Raritan Canal is a steadfast symbol of our incredibly rich industrial heritage,” said Senator Zwicker (D-Middlesex/Mercer/Somerset/ Hunterdon). “The canal likewise demonstrates New Jersey’s unwavering commitment to preserving natural and historical resources for countless future generations. It is absolutely a monument worth celebrating for years to come.”
The joint resolution, SJR-158, would encourage the Governor to issue an annual proclamation calling upon public officials and citizens of New Jersey to observe the holiday with appropriate activities and programs.
The resolution was passed in a 38-0 vote.