Hosted by the National Park Conservation Association, members of the desert community met with Joshua Tree National Park Service representatives in a public meeting last night at the Joshua Tree Community Center. Reporter Andrew Dieleman was there to gather the details…
Joshua Tree National Park representatives were ready to answer questions regarding mounting concerns about three newly-proposed programs for Joshua Tree national Park. Park Superintendent David Smith addressed the proposed $75 peak-season annual fee increase (and the proposed $70 per-vehicle one-week entrance fee during peak season), clarifying the need for funds to cover a $35 million maintenance backlog. He also brought attention to Black Rock, 49 Palms, and Indian Cove, park areas that can be visited for free.
Park Management Assistant Karin Messaros then addressed questions regarding the park’s proposed free shuttle service, including shuttle routes and how it will be used. According to Messaros, the peak-season shuttle service will alleviate park congestion in prominent parking and camping areas.
Smith then addressed the park’s proposed camping space reservation program. According to Smith, increasing the number of reservable spaces will create better camping experiences. Smith closed the meeting by first providing web links where comments and complaints could be addressed. He also reiterated that all programs were pilot proposals with the ultimate goal of improving the park one step at a time. For more information, visit the following links:
Fee increase: go.nps.gov/comment
Campgrounds: parkplanning.nps.gov/trialcampgroundreservationsystem
Shuttle Bus: parkplanning.nps.gov/RoadrunnerShuttleBus
PUBLIC MEETING HELD ON PROPOSED CHANGES IN JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK
