RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) – The Badlands National Park in South Dakota is considering renovations and new construction to meet the growing needs of visitors and park administrative functions.
The Rapid City Journal reports that the proposal would upgrade the park’s visitor center, headquarters, lodge, campground and other facilities in the Cedar Pass area. The plan and environmental assessment are open to public comments through Nov. 2.
More than 1 million people visited the park last year. Some of the park’s administrative functions are currently being housed in temporary trailers.
The renovation planning document says that current facilities are inadequate in space and function and were never intended to be a long-term solution.
Christine Czazasty is the park’s chief of interpretation and education. She says cost estimates are being prepared to identify potential funding sources.
