March 9, 2018 - On behalf of the National Parks Conservation Association, I would like to sincerely thank Congressman Jim Costa (CA-16) for his strong statements in support of a bipartisan congressional solution to fund the $11.6 billion backlog of repairs our national parks require. As a senior member of the House Natural Resource Committee, Congressman Costa’s comments in favor of the National Park Service Legacy Act during Tuesday’s committee oversight hearing presented the best option for how we can deal with the ongoing infrastructure crisis facing our beloved national parks.
Representative Costa was correct to argue the Administration’s proposal to more than double peak season entrance fees at 17 of our most iconic national parks, including Yosemite, would create a significant burden for visiting families and local communities while doing little address the growing repair backlog. With over $555 million in repair backlog needs at Yosemite alone, we need local politicians who are willing to stand up for a practical, long-term solution like the Legacy Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would fund the repair backlog without raising fees and is projected to create over 110,000 jobs nationally.
Congressman Costa has shown tremendous leadership in championing a solution that will ensure our national parks are fully maintained for future generations to enjoy.
Mark Rose
Sierra Nevada Field Representative, National Parks Conservation Association
Related information: Central Valley Congressman Jim Costa Calls for Bipartisan Solutions for Public Land and Park Maintenance – Yosemite Has Over $555 Million in Maintenance Work Backlog