to develop an important regional program of this magnitude. " Then
the President went on to say that the Area Redevelopment Ad-
ministration would "focus particular attention upon the opportunities
—as well as the problems—of the Appalachian Region. "

This third conference was by far the most successful meeting of
the Appalachian governors; and I believe that it is proper to say that
ever since that date the Governors Conference has been established
in the minds of the administration as an advisory group and an
intimate working associate of the 390-million dollar area redevelop-
ment program.

Naturally, with an organization only a little over two years old, the
beginnings have been small and the ideas have been on trial. How-
ever, I know we can say now that the principles and thoughts behind
the formation of the Conference of Appalachian Governors were
sound, and that the Conference has already demonstrated its ability
to provide valuable services for the region which it represents.

We are all familiar with the examples of specific assistance under
ARA which we have already seen here in Maryland, and I now have
reason to believe that the regional program promised us a year ago
by the President is beginning to take definite form.

In general terms that program will take the form of three studies
of the Appalachian Region—one on transportation, one on an in-
ventory of the current federal state and local progress operating in
the area, and finally a pilot study to determine a future action pro-
gram.

Once this program begins—even in a small way—the basic aims of
the Appalachian Governors Conference will have taken a great step
forward.

Up to now the chief task of the Conference has been to highlight
and underline our firm belief that the regional approach offers the
best solution to the Appalachian area's difficulties. Once this idea
begins to be funded by money as well as by thoughts, the Governors
Conference can be seen as a key instrument in the accomplishment
of the ARA goals.

Meanwhile, we mean to strengthen the Conference and extend its
influence as a unique institution for the accomplishment of an import-
ant national purpose. The recent governors meeting in Hershey,
Pennsylvania, underlined how vitally important it is becoming for
states to get together on a regional basis to solve their common prob-
lems.

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