Zion Forever Project seeks $5M for Utah national parks infrastructure funding

The Outdoor Adventure Commission convened on April 29, 2025, to discuss critical funding needs for Utah's national parks, focusing on the Zion Forever Project. The meeting highlighted the urgent request for a $5 million out-of-sequence funding proposal aimed at addressing significant challenges faced by Utah's national parks, including increased visitation, deferred maintenance, and reduced federal resources.

Stephanie Lyon, representing the Zion Forever Project, emphasized the importance of this funding to preserve vital infrastructure and maintain essential services that enhance visitor experiences and support local economies. The proposal is a collaborative effort involving various national parks and monuments across Utah, including Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Capitol Reef.

Lyon detailed the current challenges, noting that Utah's national parks are experiencing a combined deferred maintenance backlog of $387 million. This backlog affects critical areas such as wastewater management, emergency access, and visitor facilities, which are essential for safety and satisfaction. The funding request aims to bridge these urgent gaps and prevent further economic and operational consequences.

Heath Hansen from the Washington County Tourism and Convention Office supported the proposal, highlighting that Zion National Park alone contributes nearly $970 million annually to the state's economy. He noted that the park's operations are crucial for sustaining local businesses and jobs, with many residents directly tied to the tourism sector.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of the funding request, with concerns raised about the uncertainty surrounding federal support and staffing for national parks. The commission members acknowledged the need for immediate action to stabilize park operations and ensure a positive visitor experience during the peak season.

Questions from the commission members included inquiries about the specific allocation of funds and the potential for ongoing support from Washington County. The consensus among the presenters was that the funding would be shared among the Mighty 5 national parks, with a focus on urgent projects that could be implemented quickly.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical need for funding to support Utah's national parks, with the Zion Forever Project leading the charge to secure resources that will enhance infrastructure, improve visitor services, and bolster the local economy. The commission plans to further discuss the proposal and its implications in upcoming sessions.