The General Assembly recognizes that the cities in the state have a rich historical and cultural heritage, that many of the cities are in need of economic revitalization and that preservation and interpretation of such heritage can foster revitalization by encouraging private sector investment and tourism. Therefore, the General Assembly declares that it is the policy of the state to develop new recreational opportunities in conjunction with the preservation and interpretation of such heritage through the designation of a system of heritage parks so that the quality of life for Connecticut residents may be improved.