WASHINGTON -- After years of false starts, Congress is a step closer to commemorating the Pittsburgh region's rich industrial heritage with a national park along the Monongahela River.

Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa., and Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., yesterday introduced a bill that would designate parts of the Carrie Furnace site in Rankin and the former U.S. Steel Homestead Works as a "Steel Industry National Historic Site."

"With both of our senators on board, I think we're going to finally move on this," said U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle, D-Forest Hills, who has been pushing a similar measure in the House for several years. "I'm confident this is going to be our year."

Last fall, Carrie Furnaces 6 and 7 were recognized as a national historic landmark, and, in 2005, Allegheny County acquired the site from a private company. Those changes should ease the legislative process for Pennsylvania lawmakers in Washington.

At the local level, the Steel Industry Heritage Corp. has taken the lead on promoting a national park.

August Carlino, the organization's director, has estimated a price tag of at least $75 million for restorations.

The park would straddle the Monongahela, covering 38 acres, including the site of the 1892 labor lockout and fight between steelworkers and Pinkerton guards, one of the bloodiest labor disputes in U.S. history.

A hot metal bridge that once carried pig iron between the Carrie Furnaces and Homestead would connect the park's two parts.

If Congress approves, the U.S. Department of the Interior would have up to three years to develop a comprehensive plan for the park. Legislators could then appropriate money.

Mr. Doyle said the "historic site" designation also would attract private donors.

"The steel industry and the workers who fueled that industry are an integral part of Pennsylvania's heritage, especially in the Southwest," said Mr. Casey.

"Sen. Specter has pursued this effort for a number of years. I am proud to join him."