Explore America’s Natural Treasures: Free Park Admission This Sunday Only

If you've been wanting to get into one of the area national parks, recreation areas, or monuments, Sunday might be a opportunity for you. The National Park Service will be giving free admission to commemorate the anniversary of the signing of the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA).

If you are not familiar, the Great American Outdoors Act, signed into law on August 4, 2020, marks a significant milestone in the preservation and enhancement of the United States' natural treasures. This landmark legislation ensures robust funding for the maintenance and improvement of national parks, forests, and public lands, guaranteeing that future generations can enjoy these pristine environments.

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The GAOA addresses the critical need for maintenance in national parks and other public lands. It allocates up to $1.9 billion per year for five years to tackle the long-standing backlog of deferred maintenance projects. This funding is crucial for repairing and upgrading infrastructure such as trails, roads, and visitor facilities, which have suffered from decades of underfunding and neglect. The improved facilities will enhance the visitor experience, ensuring safety and accessibility for all.

Moreover, the GAOA provides permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), securing $900 million annually. The LWCF, established in 1965, uses revenue from offshore oil and gas drilling to support the acquisition and development of public lands. This permanent funding guarantees the protection of vital natural resources and recreational spaces, from urban parks to vast wilderness areas.

The GAOA is benefiting facilities in our region. For example, future visitors to Glen National Recreation Area will soon be able to enjoy the benefits of GAOA funding for the Wahweap and Lone Rock water and wastewater systems. This project will rehabilitate all wastewater system and drinking water systems in these highly visited destinations. These efforts are expected to keep essential utilities in good working condition for the next 30 years. The park is currently in the schematic design phase and anticipates starting construction in 2026. Components of this investment project will be completed in Arizona and Utah.

Beyond the economic and environmental impacts, the GAOA underscores a collective commitment to preserving the nation's natural heritage. It reflects a bipartisan effort to prioritize conservation, ensuring that America's public lands remain a source of inspiration, adventure, and solace.

As we celebrate the Great American Outdoors Act with free admission to National Park Service facilities this Sunday, we recognize its pivotal role in safeguarding the beauty and integrity of our natural landscapes, promising a bright future for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers across the country.