Sens. Angus King and Susan Collins have had years of opportunity to publicly support a plan for a new national park in Maine.

At this, the beginning of 2016, I look forward to the National Park System’s 100th birthday. Maine’s own celebration of this milestone may perhaps fall flat, as the opportunity to move forward on a proposed national park plan in the North Woods has not garnered public support from independent Sen. King, despite his work on the Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

Leadership, particularly from King on this subject, could make 2016 a terrific year for Maine — marking the stewardship of Maine’s natural beauty and giving residents more to celebrate with a park in the Katahdin region. Furthermore, the revitalization of the community and its economic returns could begin, as soon as this year. What Mainer wants to miss out on such a valuable resource?

The park has been talked about for years, but now, in the National Park Service’s 100th year, is the time for Maine’s senators to listen to the majority of their constituents — Mainers from all walks of life who support the park.

Maine needs Sens. King and Collins to lead the effort and provide active representation on the national park proposal.

Alicia Rea, Lewiston