The origin of the Gateways Network lies in the Chesapeake Bay Initiative Act of 1998. The Act calls for the National Park Service to work with state and local governments, the private sector and other federal agencies to build a partnership network of gateways and water trails in Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Planning for the Gateways Network began in late 1999, resulting in a Framework that guides the Network's development. The first Gateways were designated in summer 2000; more are being added regularly.

• Chesapeake Bay Gateways Network Framework (1.7 MB pdf)
• Chesapeake Bay Initiative Act of 1998
• Order Framework by mail
• Order a short brochure by mail