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The South
Denali interagency planning team represented by the State of Alaska,
Matanuska-Susitna Borough, and National Park Service has published
the Draft South Denali Implementation Plan and Environmental Impact
Statement (EIS). The Alaska Department of Natural Resources, through
a concurrent process with the South Denali planning efforts, is
amending the 1989 Denali State Park Master Plan (DSPMP). Both documents
are available for public review and comment.
These plans
provide specific direction for expanded visitor facilities and recreational
opportunities in the South Denali region.
They include alternatives for new and expanded visitor facilities
in Denali State Park and areas south of the park along the Parks
Highway and Petersville Road. Jerry Lewanski, State Parks Director,
stated, "We support the development of improved access to state
lands on the south side of Denali and a new visitor destination
in Denali State Park. This plan will provide many new opportunities
for both Alaska residents and visitors."
One alternative
proposes a new visitor facility near Curry Ridge and the other proposes
a new facility in the Peters Hills. There is also a "no build"
alternative. The plans also include proposals for facilities such
as campgrounds, waysides, and trails for both summer and winter
use.
These two plans
are available at agency offices and for online review at www.southdenaliplanning.com.
The plans will also be available for review at public libraries
in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Palmer, Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Trapper
Creek. Public meetings to receive formal testimony are scheduled
for the following dates and locations:
Anchorage Wed., October 19 - Atwood Building, 550 W. 7th Ave., Suite
240
Denali Park Wed., October 26 - Murie Science and Learning Center
Fairbanks Thurs., October 27 - Noel Wien Library, 1215 Cowles Street
Upper Susitna Valley Wed., November 2 -- Upper Susitna Valley Senior
Center, Parks Highway Mile 98, Helena Drive
Wasilla Thurs., November 3 - Central Station 65, Cottonwood Facility,
680 N.
Seward-Meridian Parkway
Schedule for
all meetings:
5:00pm - Informal workshop
6:30pm - Brief presentation
6:45pm - Formal public hearing
FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION CONTACT: Miriam Valentine, Park Planner, at the Talkeetna
Ranger Station, P.O. Box 588, Talkeetna, AK 99676, (907) 733-9102,
or via email at dena_ south_denali_public_comments@nps.gov. Current
information is also available on the internet at www.southdenaliplanning.com.
Privacy
& Disclaimer
Author:Jane
Ahern
www.nps.gov/akso
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