Supporters of the Blue Ridge Parkway want to engage local communities in efforts to sustain the 469-mile scenic roadway.

Gov. Tim Kaine was the keynote speaker Friday as organizers unveiled plans for the parkway's 75th anniversary, which will be in 2010. He spoke at a ceremony at milepost 115 in Roanoke.

Parkway Superintendent Phil Francis said the roadway draws 20 million annual visitors, creating a $2.3 billion economic impact in communities in Virginia and North Carolina.

A news release said Blue Ridge Parkway 75 Inc. has been created to address the fragility of the parkway and lay the groundwork for its continued role as an economic force in the region.