CHAPTER 2

ALTERNATIVE 3

Taft Toe Parking
(No Out-of-Valley Parking)

This alternative would restore approximately 209 developed and disturbed acres in Yosemite Valley to natural conditions. In addition, 148 acres of developed land would be redeveloped and 99 acres of undeveloped land would be developed to accommodate visitor and employee services such as campgrounds, day-visitor parking, and employee housing. It would consolidate parking for day visitors in the Taft Toe area in mid-Yosemite Valley. A new Valley Visitor Center would also be constructed at Taft Toe. There would be fewer campsites and lodging units than there are now. The area of the former Upper and Lower River Campgrounds and the Camp 6 parking area near Yosemite Village would be restored to riparian habitat, roads would be removed from Ahwahnee and Stoneman Meadows, and parking and the historic fruit trees would be removed from Curry Orchard. Northside Drive would be converted to a trail for pedestrians and bicyclists, without the immediate presence of motor vehicles, from Yosemite Lodge to El Capitan Bridge. Southside Drive would be converted to two-way traffic from Taft Toe to Curry Village. The net effect of this alternative would be to reduce development in Yosemite Valley by 72 acres.

For more actions proposed for this alternative, see the Actions Common to All Action Alternatives section at the beginning of this chapter. For a discussion of the impacts associated with this alternative, see Vol. Ib, Chapter 4, Environmental Consequences. For graphic representations of this alternative, see Vol. Ic, plates 3-1 to 3-7.

Summary of Major Changes in Relation to Existing Conditions

RESTORE

REMOVE

ESTABLISH OR PRESCRIBE

IMPLEMENT

CONSTRUCT

CONVERT

INCREASE/EXPAND

REDUCE

RELOCATE

Natural Resources

This alternative would link highly valued natural resource areas that have been degraded or fragmented (such as the Merced River and its tributaries, wetlands, meadows, and California black oak woodlands) into one large, contiguous, and dynamic river-governed ecosystem (see Vol. Ic, plate D, Highly Valued Resources). Many facilities and infrastructure in highly valued resource areas would be removed, making the restoration of these areas possible in the east end of Yosemite Valley. The environmental cost would be the construction of a new visitor/transit center and parking at Taft Toe (approximately 54 acres), in a previously undeveloped, mixed conifer community in mid-Valley near El Capitan crossover.

MERCED RIVER ECOSYSTEM
(INCLUDING TRIBUTARIES, WETLAND, RIPARIAN, AND MEADOW AREAS)

As described in Actions Common to All Action Alternatives at the beginning of this chapter, the River Protection Overlay prescribed in the Merced River Plan would be implemented in Yosemite Valley and El Portal. The River Protection Overlay would provide a buffer area for natural flood flows, channel formation, riparian vegetation, and wildlife habitat and would protect riverbanks from human-caused damage and associated erosion. Above 3,800 feet in elevation (including Yosemite Valley), the River Protection Overlay is 150 feet on either side of the river, measured from ordinary high water. Below 3,800 feet in elevation (including El Portal), where the river gradient and characteristics change, the overlay is 100 feet on each side of the river, measured from ordinary high water.

Meadows are an important part of the Yosemite Valley ecosystem and cultural landscape. Naturally high water tables in meadows protect them from conifer invasion. When water tables have been altered by existing development or encroachment, and restoration of natural water processes is unlikely, a program of prescribed fire and mechanical clearing would be employed to prevent conifer invasion into meadows.

The Merced River corridor, riparian vegetation, wetlands, and meadows are a central component of the Yosemite Valley cultural landscape. River restoration, riparian area revegetation, and meadow management would also rehabilitate these important landscape resources.

As described for Alternative 2, roads would be removed from Stoneman Meadow and the southern end of Ahwahnee Meadow. After the roads are removed, the natural topography of the meadows would be restored, and disturbed sites would be replanted (if necessary) with appropriate plants of the same local genetic makeup. The roads and utilities through Bridalveil, El Capitan, and Cook's Meadows would be evaluated and, if needed, realigned or reconstructed to restore critical surface water and shallow subsurface water flows that sustain the native meadow vegetation and wildlife and discourage conifer invasion. Parking lanes would be removed from Northside Drive through El Capitan and Cook's Meadows to reduce impacts associated with current levels of use in the meadows.

As described for Alternative 2, Yellow Pine, an informal campground for park volunteer groups, would be removed and the area restored to a riparian and conifer community.

At Housekeeping Camp, all accommodations would be removed from the River Protection Overlay and highly valued resource areas, including potential riparian and wetland areas, reducing the number of units from 264 to 52. The area would be restored to riparian communities.

Under this alternative, parking would be removed from the Camp 6 area near Yosemite Village and placed in an area outside the floodplain at Taft Toe, in the mid-Valley. Camp 6 would be restored to a mosaic of meadow, riparian, and California black oak woodland communities.

Southside Drive in the Bridalveil Fall area would be reconstructed to improve water movement through the braided stream system (the same as under Alternative 2).

Cascades Diversion Dam on the Merced River west of Pohono Bridge (near the intersection of the Big Oak Flat and El Portal Roads) would be removed to restore natural channel grades and hydrologic processes along this segment of the river (the same as under Alternative 2) (see Actions Common to All Action Alternatives at the beginning of this chapter).

Under this alternative, four historic bridges—Sugar Pine, Stoneman, Housekeeping, and Superintendent's—would be removed to allow for the unconstrained flow and meandering of the Merced River. The riverbanks adjacent to the bridges that would be removed would be restored to a more natural condition. As described for Alternative 2, all bridges west of Happy Isles to Swinging Bridge affect river dynamics, and each has been evaluated (under other provisions of this alternative) to determine the severity of these effects as well as the importance of access to and across the river. Ahwahnee Bridge would be retained to provide a nonvehicular connection between Yosemite Village, the campgrounds, and Curry Village. If necessary, a new bridge or bridges would be constructed over the cutoff channels southeast of Ahwahnee Bridge to facilitate a pedestrian trail and multi-use path connection to the Lower Pines area.

The recreational vehicle dump station at Upper Pines would be relocated outside of the River Protection Overlay, and the area would be restored to a riparian community (the same as under Alternative 2).

As described under Alternative 2, the areas that were formerly Upper River, Lower River, and the northwest end of Lower Pines Campgrounds would be restored to a mosaic of meadow, riparian, and California black oak woodland communities. Restoration would involve removing imported fill that was used to level the campgrounds, contouring the sites to match natural topography, and replanting the sites if necessary with appropriate plants of the same local genetic makeup as neighboring plant communities. Utilities in the former Upper and Lower River Campgrounds and the southern part of Ahwahnee Meadow would be removed and realigned along transportation corridors.

All of North Pines Campground would be removed, fill material removed if necessary, and the area restored to riparian/California black oak communities. The former Group Campground and existing Backpackers Campground along Tenaya Creek would be removed, and the areas would be restored to riparian/upland communities.

The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area and associated parking would be removed and the area restored to riparian communities (the same as under Alternative 2).

Under this alternative, the fruit trees would be removed from Lamon's Orchard, a highly valued cultural resource, and the area would be restored to riparian/California black oak communities. The fruit trees and parking would be removed from the historic Curry Orchard, and the area would be restored to a mosaic of upland, California black oak, and meadow communities.

The human-built rock-rubble pile in Yosemite Creek, directly downstream from the bridge at the base of Yosemite Falls, would be removed to restore natural water flow in the western channels of Yosemite Creek (the same as under Alternative 2).

The area between the bike path at Yosemite Lodge (the proposed realignment of Northside Drive) and the Merced River (the site of former Yosemite Lodge cabins, Pine Cottage, and employee housing) would be restored to riparian communities (the same as under Alternative 2).

The concessioner stable and related employee housing would be removed and the area restored to riparian/California black oak communities (the same as under Alternative 2).

Under this alternative, the Art Activity Center function would be relocated; the former bank building would be removed, and the area would be restored to riparian communities. The Concessioner Headquarters Building would be removed, and the area would be restored to a mosaic of meadow/California black oak communities.

Radiating impacts from the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center and day-visitor parking area could affect adjacent riparian areas in Yosemite Valley. In El Portal, the sand pit would be removed from operational use and restored to riparian communities.

CALIFORNIA BLACK OAK WOODLAND

As described for Alternative 2, the tennis courts at The Ahwahnee would be removed and the area restored to California black oak woodland. The Superintendent's House (Residence 1) adjacent to Cook's Meadow would be removed and the area restored to California black oak woodland.

Under this alternative, the fruit trees at the historic Hutchings Orchard would be removed, and the area restored to California black oak woodland.

California black oak habitats would be affected in Yosemite Valley by construction of employee housing west of Curry Village, development of campsites east of Curry Village, and the construction of a firehouse at Yosemite Village. Construction of new lodging units at Curry Village could result in the loss of some oaks. In El Portal, areas of black oaks would be affected by development of housing and administrative facilities.

UPLAND COMMUNITY

Houses along the edge of Ahwahnee Meadow (Ahwahnee Row) would be removed and the area would be restored to a mixture of upland, California black oak, riparian, and meadow communities.

The administrative/utility area to the east of The Ahwahnee would be restored to upland/California black oak woodland (the same as under Alternative 2).

The area of the former service station at Yosemite Lodge would be restored to upland/California black oak woodland.

The development of a visitor/transit center and day-visitor parking at Taft Toe would affect upland habitats in Yosemite Valley. Other developments that would affect upland areas in Yosemite Valley include development of new campsites east of Curry Village, north of Tenaya Creek, and in the northern portion of Upper Pines; construction of employee housing west of Curry Village; construction of new lodging units at Yosemite Lodge and Curry Village; widening of Southside Drive; and the addition of a new multi-use trail along Southside Drive. Upland areas outside Yosemite Valley that would be affected include El Portal (construction of housing), Big Oak Flat and South Entrances (visitor centers), and Foresta (houses and stable operations at nearby McCauley Ranch ).

Cultural Resources

This alternative would retain to the degree possible the historically significant sites, structures, and landscape features in Yosemite Valley, where such preservation does not conflict with natural resource restoration goals. Archeological sites and ethnographic resources would be protected wherever possible, and traditional uses by culturally associated Indian people would be encouraged. Large tracts of the Valley's meadows, California black oak woodlands, and the riverís riparian corridor would be restored to a more natural condition, enhancing these important components of the cultural landscape of Yosemite Valley. To achieve these natural resource restoration goals, four historic bridges would be removed, and other individually significant structures and historic buildings that contribute to the Valleyís cultural landscape would be removed. Some historic structures would be rehabilitated and adaptively reused. All three historic orchards would be removed. Although changes would occur in the vicinity of the three National Historic Landmark structures, they would be protected from actions that would affect their historic significance. The Yosemite Museum collection (including research library and archives) would be consolidated in Yosemite Valley.

ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES

Archeological sites would continue to be preserved in place as much as possible. The most highly valued sites (those with high research potential) would be avoided during new construction or development wherever possible. No new development would occur in areas where human burials are known to exist. Existing development that is causing ongoing site degradation would be removed or rehabilitated, wherever possible. The abandoned sewer plant in the Rancheria Flat area of El Portal would be removed from a prehistoric cemetery. A building and asphalt would be removed from a burial site in Yosemite Village.

Where special opportunities exist, prehistoric and historic archeological resources would be interpreted to visitors. In the Lower Yosemite Fall area, a large and important prehistoric village site would be protected. Surface prehistoric archeological features, local American Indian traditions, and important historic archeological features would be interpreted through wayside exhibits along the Lower Yosemite Fall loop trail.

ETHNOGRAPHIC RESOURCES

Through existing agreements and ongoing consultation with culturally associated American Indian tribes, access to and use of special resources in Yosemite Valley would continue. The National Park Service and culturally associated American Indian groups would continue to develop a parkwide gathering plan for the tending and use of traditional plant resources. Access would continue to be provided for American Indian participants in traditional and ceremonial activities. American Indians conducting traditional activities in Yosemite Valley would not be restricted to day-visitor parking and shuttle transit. Special provisions would be implemented to allow parking in short-term turnouts. Known burial areas would continue to be protected. These areas (the last occupied American Indian village and all known burial areas) are considered among the valued resources of American Indian people, and they were so considered during this planning effort. Where previously unknown burials were discovered, provisions outlined in the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act and its implementing regulations would be followed. Other important areas, such as gathering locations, historic American Indian villages, and areas of spiritual or traditional importance, would be protected as much as possible.

The park's Programmatic Agreement for compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act also includes provisions for including culturally associated American Indian tribes in the park's planning process. This agreement stipulates that the park and associated American Indian tribes develop an agreement for government-to-government relations, protocols for official consultations regarding issues of concern and park actions that may affect traditional resources, and park-specific guidelines for implementing provisions of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act.

CULTURAL LANDSCAPE RESOURCES
(INCLUDING INDIVIDUALLY SIGNIFICANT HISTORIC SITES AND STRUCTURES)

Yosemite Valley

Under this alternative, many of the historically significant natural characteristics of the proposed Yosemite Valley Cultural Landscape Historic District would be rehabilitated and enhanced. General landscape characteristics such as natural features, views, and vegetation would be retained and rehabilitated. However, historic patterns of land use, spatial organization, the Valleyís circulation system, some individually significant historic structures, and many structures that contribute to the Valleywide cultural landscape would be altered or removed.

The overall character of Yosemite Valleyís spatial organization would be perpetuated. Key natural resource restoration actions, such as implementation of the River Protection Overlay and restoration of the associated natural river processes and adjacent meadows, would enhance natural features and vegetation that are characteristic of the landscape in Yosemite Valley. However, physical historic structures that have modified the river and meadows (such as Sugar Pine, Stoneman, Housekeeping, and Superintendent's Bridges, riprap and other river revetment structures, meadow ditches, etc.) would be removed in order to achieve these restoration objectives. Although the majority of concentrated visitor development would remain in the east Valley, this historic spatial organization would be altered through development of the Taft Toe area for day-visitor parking and a visitor/transit center.

The historic circulation system that encircles the Valley floor would largely be retained. However, the use of this system would change with the closure of a portion of Northside Drive to motor vehicles, the conversion of Southside Drive to two-way traffic, and the relocation of visitor parking and orientation to the mid-Valley at Taft Toe. Portions of both Northside and Southside Drives (both contributing circulation structures in the Valleywide cultural landscape) would also be realigned, and a portion of Southside Drive would be widened. Some noncontributing circulation structures would be removed, such as the roads across Stoneman and Ahwahnee Meadows.

Valleywide land-use patterns would continue, although the location of some activities would change. Camping would continue in Yosemite Valley, but campgrounds themselves (which are not contributing resources) would be relocated away from the river. Stable operations would be relocated outside Yosemite Valley. Access to historically significant views would be retained and enhanced.

Of the many individually significant historic structures, three would be removed. Sugar Pine and Stoneman Bridges would be removed to restore a more natural river flow. The Superintendent's House (Residence 1) and its associated garage would be removed and the area restored to California black oak woodland community.

Changes would also occur in the Yosemite Village area. The historic NPS Operations Building (Fort Yosemite), other historic maintenance shops, and the Camp 1 complex (all of which are contributing elements in the Valleywide cultural landscape) would be removed and the areas redeveloped for district operations. The Camp 6 area would be restored to natural conditions. As part of this natural resource restoration, many contributing elements of the Valleywide cultural landscape would be removed. Structures to be removed include the Concessioner Headquarters Building, the Village Garage and its associated apartment, and the Ahwahnee Row houses and apartments.

The designed landscape in the Yosemite Village Historic District would be rehabilitated. All the historic structures, which are contributing elements of this historic district, would be retained. The Yosemite Museum/Valley District Building (the historic Museum Building) would be rehabilitated and converted to serve entirely as a cultural history museum. The historic NPS Administration Building would be rehabilitated for a new use as a natural history museum. No changes would occur at the National Historic Landmark Rangersí Club. Other central structures in Yosemite Village, including The Ansel Adams Gallery and associated structures, the Yosemite Village Post Office, and the historic Pohono Indian Studio (current Wilderness Center), would be retained. Historic views within Yosemite Village would be re-established, and the California black oak community would be stabilized and protected in the historic residential area. A new fire station would be constructed at the edge of the historic district housing area, designed to be compatible with the district. Hutchings Orchard would be removed and the area restored to natural conditions. Prior to the orchardís removal, a genetic conservation program would be initiated to salvage cuttings and establish representative plants at an appropriate facility outside Yosemite National Park.

The Ahwahnee is both a National Historic Landmark and a National Register historic property. No changes would occur to the National Historic Landmark hotel structure or its setting. The employee dormitory, a contributing element of the larger National Register property, would be rehabilitated. Three nonhistoric employee tent cabins would be removed. The tennis courts, which are also contributing elements of the larger National Register property, would be removed in order to restore a California black oak woodland community. The western portion of the parking area, which lacks historical integrity, would be reconfigured.

In the Curry Village area, all employee tent housing would be removed. The fruit trees would be removed from the historic Curry Orchard and the area restored to natural conditions. Prior to removal, a genetic conservation program would be initiated to salvage cuttings and establish representative plants at an appropriate conservation facility outside Yosemite National Park.

At the Camp Curry Historic District, visitor services would remain concentrated in the central portion of the district, and significant historic buildings such as the Lounge (original registration building) and Registration Building (original post office) would remain. Of the existing 475 historic guest tent accommodations, 150 would remain (277 would be removed). The 48 architecturally significant historic bungalows and Cottage 819 would be retained in their original configuration for continued use as guest lodging. The Mother Curry Bungalow would be retained, but other significant historic structures (Huff House and Tresidder Residence) would be removed. New cabin rooms with bath (204 units) would be constructed within the historic district to the north and east sides of the bungalows. Guest parking would be relocated from the historic Curry Orchard area.

At Lower Yosemite Fall, the historic footbridge at the base of the fall would be rehabilitated, three footbridges would be removed, two would be relocated, and one would be rehabilitated or rebuilt (all are contributing elements in the Valleywide cultural landscape). The shuttle stop east of Yosemite Creek would be designed to be compatible to the adjacent Yosemite Village Historic District.

The historic concessioner stable and associated facilities would be removed. The Nature Center at Happy Isles (historic Happy Isles Fish Hatchery) would be used year-round.

At historic Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground), the five westernmost campsites would be removed to provide a buffer for the proposed Indian Cultural Center. Important historic features would be retained, and 17 additional campsites would be established east of the existing core of the campground. These new sites would be designed to be compatible with the historic site.

No changes would occur at the National Historic Landmark LeConte Memorial Lodge. No changes would occur at the Bridalveil Meadow historic site.

Fruit trees would be removed from the individually significant Lamon Orchard historic site, Curry Orchard, and Hutchings Orchard and the areas restored to natural conditions. Prior to their removal, a genetic conservation program would be initiated to salvage cuttings and establish representative plants at an appropriate facility outside Yosemite National Park.

Merced River Gorge

The segment of the El Portal Road between the intersection of the Big Oak Flat/El Portal Roads and Pohono Bridge would be rebuilt. This reconstruction would be designed to be compatible with other segments of the road and would retain the important historic characteristics of this National Register property.

Six of the remaining seven components of the Yosemite Hydroelectric Power Plant, a property determined eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places, would be removed. The six to be removed are: (1) the diversion dam, (2) the screenhouse and associated features, and (3) the four Cascades residences.

El Portal

In El Portal, final decisions regarding the location of new facilities and retention or removal of some historic structures would be deferred until site-specific development planning. The three historic National Lead Company residences would be retained as housing and rehabilitated. The historic railroad residences and the old El Portal Store (all privately owned historic structures on leased National Park Service lots) would be retained as housing. The historic El Portal Chapel (the old El Portal School) and the Yosemite Research Center (Murchison House) would be retained. The El Portal Hotel would be studied for rehabilitation and possible adaptive reuse. If it would not be feasible to reuse this building and meet park needs for this area of El Portal, it would be removed. The current El Portal Market would either be retained or removed and the area redeveloped as part of the commercial core of El Portal.

MUSEUM COLLECTION
(INCLUDING ARCHINVES AND RESEARCH LIBRARY)

Under this alternative, the Yosemite Museum collection would be housed in a new facility adjacent to the existing visitor center's West Auditorium. The West Auditorium would be adapted to house the park's archives, and the research library would be housed in the remodeled visitor center. These facilities would allow for increased visitor access to the museum collection by moving all parts of the collection into a facility remodeled or constructed to meet preservation needs and located next to the Yosemite Museum.

Visitor Experience

Key distinguishing visitor experience elements of this alternative include:

As described for the other action alternatives, management of the number of vehicles entering the east end of Yosemite Valley on any given day would be a substantial change from existing conditions. Traffic and congestion in the Valley would be reduced, and pedestrians and bicyclists would have expanded opportunities to access the length of the Valley. While access into Yosemite Valley for visitors with reservations for overnight accommodations in the Valley would not change significantly, access for day visitors (including visitors staying overnight elsewhere in the park) would change. Valley day visitors would drive to and park their cars at Taft Toe (capacity of 1,622 vehicles) or arrive at Taft Toe by buses. Visitors would travel by shuttle bus or by non-motorized means to the east Valley. Fifty short-term parking places would be provided at Taft Toe for visitors with overnight accommodations in Yosemite Valley. This would allow them to access the visitor center upon their arrival in the Valley. Once these visitors check into their overnight accommodations, they would be required to use the in-Valley shuttle bus service to access Valley destinations, including the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center.

In the Valley, a spectrum of recreational activities and experiences would continue to be available under all alternatives, and there would be new opportunities for experiencing portions of the Valley without vehicles. While extensive touring in personal vehicles would no longer be an option, park shuttle buses would serve the entire Valley rather than just the east end. Travel around the Valley would be by shuttle bus, bicycle, walking, and concessioner tours. Visitor use would be dispersed throughout the Valley, with an increased use of existing trails in the west Valley, and a new multi-use paved trail connecting the mid-Valley to the east Valley. As under the other action alternatives, the number of campsites and lodging units would decrease from current levels, but they would continue to provide a diversity of experiences and prices. Orientation and interpretive services would be expanded.

ACCESS FOR VISITORS WITH DISABILITIES

The method of access by visitors with mobility impairments would temporarily remain similar to existing conditions, with controlled access available for personal vehicles to, and parking at, specially marked spaces at principal Valley features. As under Alternative 2, vehicular access to the sections of Northside Drive closed to automobile traffic would not be available. Eventually, as buses became fully accessible, visitors with disabilities could use them to access Valley destinations, and overnight users could drive directly to their lodging. As implementation of the Yosemite Valley Plan occurs, accessibility needs would be fully analyzed, and an accessibility plan would be developed to provide the best-feasible access for visitors with disabilities. Improvements in access to structures, features, and programs would continue, based on this new plan. New facilities would meet accessibility guidelines.

VISITOR USE AND LAND MANAGEMENT ZONING

As described under Actions Common to All Action Alternatives, this alternative would accommodate visitation levels established in the 1980 General Management Plan. The National Park Service would conduct a Visitor Experience and Resource Protection (VERP) study within five years of a Record of Decision to identify existing and desired conditions for natural resources, cultural resources, and visitor experience. Based on the VERP, the National Park Service would (1) establish management zoning that complements the management zoning established in the Merced River Plan; (2) develop indicators to measure visitor experience and resource conditions; (3) develop standards that define acceptable measurements for each indicator; (4) develop an assessment program to monitor standards; (5) develop a decision-making process to be used in identifying management actions necessary to maintain or restore desired conditions; and (6) develop visitor-use level recommendations for each zone.

TRAVELER INFORMATION AND TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT

As described under Actions Common to All Action Alternatives, this alternative would include the design and implementation of a traveler information and traffic management system that would use a variety of techniques to assist visitors in planning their trips, to encourage efficient use of available transportation facilities and services, and to assure that vehicle volumes do not exceed the capacity of roads and parking.

ORIENTATION AND INTERPRETATION

As described for the other action alternatives, orientation opportunities would remain decentralized, but would be expanded to include improved visitor centers at or near entrance stations. Orientation would be provided sequentially, starting with improved resources for visitors to use before starting a visit, including the park's web site and pre-visit publications. Greater emphasis would be placed on supporting gateway joint-agency visitor centers, particularly to provide current information on access and reservation availability.

As under the other alternatives, once at the park, visitors would find expanded or new visitor centers near each entrance station, contributing to their sense of arrival and their ability to discover and take advantage of parkwide offerings. At these visitor centers, visitors would receive assistance in planning their visits; obtaining maps, publications, wilderness, and other permits; and making or confirming reservations for overnight accommodations. The park orientation film would be shown in these facilities.

When visitors arrived in the Valley, they would find a new full-service visitor center at Taft Toe. From there they could continue their tour of the rest of the Valley by shuttle bus, bicycle, or on foot (visitors with overnight accommodations would drive to their lodging or campsite). Visitors with overnight accommodations in Yosemite Valley would find new, small, unstaffed orientation facilities at their lodge or campground, and campground hosts near their campsites. These visitors could also take a shuttle bus to the visitor center at Taft Toe. All staffed orientation centers would sell orientation and interpretive publications by the parkís cooperating association.

Information at shuttle bus stops would be improved, with clear and consistent signs posted throughout the Valley to help visitors use the system with ease and efficiency (the same as under the other action alternatives).

Interpretive services and facilities (e.g., ranger programs, tours, exhibits, school programs) offered by the National Park Service, concessioner, and other partners would be greatly increased above current levels, as proposed in the General Management Plan. This would enhance understanding of park themes, contribute to resource stewardship, and accommodate visitors touring park features. The variety and locations of interpretive programs would be increased to meet the needs of various visitors, including those with disabilities or those speaking languages other than English. Under this alternative, interpretive programming would be offered in both the east and west Valley. New programs at popular views and on trails would be emphasized, including talks, short walks, bicycle tours, and occasional half-day or all-day programs. The Valley Floor Tour would no longer have access to Northside Drive between Yosemite Lodge and El Capitan Bridge, but some turnouts on both sides of Southside Drive east of Taft Toe would be retained and could be used by these buses and trams. Ticketing and boarding areas for the Valley Floor Tour would be available at Taft Toe, as well as Valley lodging areas and Yosemite Village.

Yosemite Village would become a hub of interpretive activity. A small information desk in a museum lobby would replace visitor center functions for Yosemite Village. Theater productions and special programs would be presented in the current Visitor Centerís upgraded East Auditorium. In-depth interpretation of parkwide themes and the museum collection would be found at two museums: a natural history museum in the majority of the present NPS Administration Building, and an expanded cultural history museum in the present Museum/Valley District Building. The Indian Village of Ahwahnee would continue to serve its present interpretive function. The Wilderness Center function would be transferred to the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center, and the Art Activity Center would be relocated to its former location in the current Wilderness Center.

The present informal gathering and program area near the Visitor Center would be redesigned and relocated as described in Alternative 2. The park's research library and photo collection would be housed in the rehabilitated, existing visitor center, while the remainder of the extensive museum collection (including historical, archeological, archival, and natural objects) would be stored in the rehabilitated West Auditorium and a new collection storage facility adjacent to the West Auditorium. A research room and a teacher resource center or classroom could be included in this curatorial facility. Some space in the existing NPS Administration Building would serve as an information center and administrative facility for the Valley district interpretive operation in order to maintain a historic administrative use of this building.

As described for Alternative 2, interpretive amphitheaters at lodging areas would remain at their present locations. The Lower Pines amphitheater would be replaced by a new amphitheater in the vicinity of the current concessioner stable parking lot to reduce noise conflicts with adjacent campers. The Lower River amphitheater would be removed and the area restored. The Nature Center at Happy Isles would be operated as a year-round facility.

A Valleywide exhibit plan would be produced to evaluate the locations of existing outdoor exhibits, as described in Alternative 2. It would recommend new exhibits and interpretive trails, focusing on new pedestrian and bicycle trails. The plan would also include recommendations for view maintenance and for some exhibit shelters that could be used for cover during inclement weather.

A program of sociological studies would be implemented that would routinely examine the effectiveness of interpretive and orientation services and media offered by the National Park Service, concessioner, and other partners (the same as under Alternative 2).

RECREATION

The mode of accessing parts of the Valley for recreational activities would change as a result of this alternative. As described for the other action alternatives, access to most recreation sites and activities in Yosemite Valley would be by shuttle bus, bicycle, or on foot rather than by private vehicle. Visitors riding shuttle buses would carry their recreational gear and supplies throughout the Valley, or store them in variably sized lockers (including bear-resistant lockers for food) that would be provided at Taft Toe and at major shuttle bus stops and destination areas. Shuttle buses would be outfitted to transport recreational equipment such as bicycles, backpacks, coolers, skis, and climbing gear.

The traveler information and traffic management system and consolidated parking would reduce opportunities for touring Valley features by private vehicles and would eliminate private vehicle use in the east Valley for day visitors. Similar to the other action alternatives, some turnouts would be removed; other turnouts would be retained for emergency use or to provide for short-term viewing of outstanding scenic features, particularly historic views. Auto touring would be replaced by guided tours (vehicular and walking), shuttle bus riding, bicycle touring, and walking. The Valley shuttle bus system would be expanded to include stops between the east Valley and Bridalveil Fall, and shuttle bus stops would be added to increase access to Valley destinations.

Trail Use

As described for the other action alternatives, development of interpretive trails and the interpretation of features more easily accessed by bicycles or on foot would be emphasized. Publications and exhibits to facilitate self-guided experiences would continue to be developed for pedestrians, bicyclists, and bus riders; these would be available at all visitor orientation facilities. Ranger-led programs would be scheduled for the convenience of visitors, with varying starting times, program lengths, and distances to be walked or bicycled.

Walking, Hiking, and Bicycling

Improved and additional trails for walking and bicycling would be available throughout Yosemite Valley, as described for the other action alternatives, and bicycle and pedestrian touring would be encouraged. Trails in some areas, including Yosemite Lodge, Curry Village, and the former Upper and Lower River Campground areas, would be realigned or converted to multi-use. In some cases, realignments would be adjusted during the final site design process. Trails would be clearly marked with directional and mileage signs. Under this alternative, conflicts between pedestrians and bicyclists would continue, but would be reduced by separating trails in some developed areas and eliminating guided and private stock trips.

Multi-use trails would be expanded west from Yosemite Lodge to El Capitan crossover and Taft Toe, utilizing the converted Northside Drive from Yosemite Lodge, and a new multi-use trail adjacent to Southside Drive from Swinging Bridge west to El Capitan Bridge and Taft Toe. A new multi-use trail would be constructed to connect Southside Drive across Sentinel Bridge to Yosemite Village along Sentinel crossover. East of Yosemite Lodge, the historic Yosemite Creek vehicle bridge would be converted to a multi-use trail after the new Yosemite Creek vehicle bridge is constructed and Northside Drive is rerouted to the south of Yosemite Lodge.

A realigned or new multi-use trail from Yosemite Village to Curry Village would pass through the area of the former Upper and Lower River Campgrounds, continuing across Ahwahnee Bridge, through Lower Pines Campground, and connecting with the existing bicycle path. As described for Alternative 2, a new multi-use trail would be developed from The Ahwahnee to the east to connect with the existing bicycle path in the Sugar Pine Bridge area. The informal trail from Ahwahnee Bridge along the north side of Stoneman Meadow to the Southside Drive/Curry Village Road intersection would be improved as a pedestrian trail.

Access to Bridalveil Fall would be via the existing Valley Loop Trail (the same as under Alternative 2). There would be no multi-use trail to Bridalveil Fall. New trails accessible to wheelchair users would be provided at Sentinel Beach, the new North American Wall picnic and viewing area at El Capitan, and other areas determined by the proposed accessibility study and plan. Seating would be provided along trails and at shuttle bus stops.

Bicycle rentals would be available at Taft Toe, Yosemite Lodge, and Curry Village. The extension of rental hours and periods (e.g., multi-day bicycle rentals) would be evaluated and implemented if feasible. Bicycle racks and lockers for gear and food would be located at major destinations throughout the Valley.

Off-pavement bicycle use, because of the damage it causes to the natural environment and conflicts with other users, would continue to be prohibited (the same as under the other action alternatives). To promote safe bicycle use, lane designations would be provided where appropriate and as necessary on multi-use trails to reduce pedestrian and bicycle conflicts and mishaps. Potential environmental damage caused by increased bicycling and pedestrian use would be minimized through trail design, messages in interpretive programs, and management action.

Lower Yosemite Fall

Access to the Lower Yosemite Fall area would be by shuttle bus, bicycle, or on foot (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-3). As described in Alternative 2, the existing parking lot would be removed and the area restored. New shuttle bus stops would be located on the north side of Northside Drive east of the Yosemite Creek Bridge; under this alternative, a stop would also be provided on the south side. Access to the base of the fall would be by foot on either a rehabilitated Western Channel Trail (the present main access) or a better-defined and hardened Eastern Channel Trail; both trails could be combined into a loop trip. Access to the base of the fall for visitors with mobility impairments would be via the redesigned and hardened Eastern Channel Trail. At the base of the fall, the historic bridge across Yosemite Creek would be rehabilitated and the viewing area enlarged. The human-built rock-rubble pile downstream from this bridge would be removed from the western creek channel.

Under this alternative, restrooms would be replaced near the existing parking lot. Two of the historic bridges along the eastern trail would be rehabilitated or rebuilt. Bridge 1 would be relocated; bridge 2 would be relocated to provide a wheelchair-accessible trail to pass south of the historic Hutchings Sawmill site; bridge 3 would be rehabilitated or rebuilt to maintain access to the Muir plaque and Clark bench; and bridges 4, 5, and 6 would be removed. A seventh bridge would be constructed to replace a bridge that was once located east of bridge 3. The pedestrian/bicycle bridge north of and parallel to the historic Yosemite Creek Bridge would be replaced with a new bridge to provide access and disperse use in this heavily used area. The section of the historic Valley Loop Trail approaching the fall northwest of the existing restroom would be rehabilitated for continued pedestrian use. Interpretive exhibits and seating would be added to both the Western and Eastern Channel Trails. An informal viewing area would be provided east of the shuttle bus stop on the north side of the road, and an informal gathering and viewing area would be located on the Western Channel Trail.

Wilderness Access

Much wilderness hiking would continue to originate in the Valley. Wilderness permits and trip planning would be available for Valley trails at all park visitor centers, including new entrance station facilities and the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center. Pre- and post-trip walk-in campsites, as well as 150 parking spaces at the current Wilderness parking area east of Curry Village, would be available for overnight wilderness users holding permits for Valley trailheads.

Climbing

Climbing in Yosemite Valley would continue, and as described for Alternative 2, the number of climbers would not be limited under this planning process. Day climbers would access the Valley in the same manner as other day visitors. For overnight climbers with wilderness permits, parking would be available in the wilderness parking area, located east of Curry Village. Overnight climbers could also access the Valley by regional transportation. Once in the Valley, access to climbing routes would be by shuttle bus or on foot.

Stock Use

The National Park Service continues to support stock use in the park; however, under this alternative, both private stock and guided stock trips would be discontinued in Yosemite Valley. Due to unacceptable conflicts between commercial horse use and other trail users, the National Park Service proposes to eliminate commercial rides in the Valley based on safety and aesthetic reasons. There would be no facilities to allow day use of private stock or to keep private stock overnight in the Valley. Present-day National Park Service and concessioner administrative stables in the Valley would be relocated outside Yosemite Valley (see Park Operations).

As described for Alternative 2, the kennel operation associated with the concessioner stable would be removed from a highly valued natural resource area. The impacts the stable operation has on this area include water pollution, erosion, trail degradation, and attraction of non-native cowbirds. Visitors would be encouraged through pre-visit information sources to board their pets in facilities outside of the park.

Picnicking

Picnic areas would continue to be available in the Valley (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-1), but picnicking would change from car-oriented (the use of large coolers and grills) to less equipment-intensive modes. Under this alternative, picnic areas at Cathedral Beach near the day-visitor parking area at Taft Toe and at Church Bowl near Yosemite Village would be improved. The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area would be removed and restored to natural conditions (the river in that area would still be accessible from the north side of the bridge). Picnic areas at Cathedral Beach and Sentinel Beach would be accessible by shuttle bus. The existing El Capitan Picnic Area would be available to bicyclists and pedestrians using Northside Drive. Since Northside Drive would be closed to vehicles, the parking area at El Capitan Picnic Area would be removed. To accommodate users of the El Capitan area, a new picnicking and viewing area—the North American Wall Picnic Area—would follow the old road alignment at El Capitan. Picnickers could carry food and gear on the Valley shuttle bus, where bins and overhead racks would be available, or they could obtain picnic supplies in Yosemite Village or at other retail facilities in the Valley.

Other Activities

The historic tennis courts at The Ahwahnee would be removed and the area restored to natural conditions (the same as under Alternative 2). Ice skating would continue to be available at a new ice rink north of the Curry Village Pavilion adjacent to the area historically used for skating at Camp Curry, as described for Alternative 2. This facility would concentrate recreational activities (rental of ice skates and skis in the winter and bicycles and rafts in the summer) into one area. The sport/mountaineering shop would also be relocated to this facility.

As described for Alternative 2, no changes to rafting on the Merced River would take place under this planning process; rafting would continue to be managed by other park resource-based plans. Swimming would continue to be available in summer at existing lodging pools. Swimming and angling in the Merced River would continue, but they would be directed toward river areas most able to withstand heavy use, such as sand and gravel bars.

Visitor Services

CAMPING

Some campground locations would change (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-2), and the number of campsites would be reduced by 26, from 475 to 449 (see table 2-26). This would be done to avoid, to the greatest extent possible, replacing campsites in highly valued natural resource areas, Merced River floodplain, and rockfall zones, and to allow for the removal of campsites from the River Protection Overlay. Many campsites closest to the river would no longer have direct river access due to riverbank restoration and revegetation. River use would be directed toward access points in areas most able to withstand heavy use, such as sand and gravel bars. Relocated campsites would provide a range of camping experiences, from walk-in to recreational vehicles. Campground orientation, parking, and circulation would be improved.

As described for Alternative 2, visitors would arrive at all campgrounds except Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground) by driving through Curry Village. The size of the camp store at Curry Village would be increased, and other camper services would be augmented. There would be one campground check station and office at the east end of Curry Village. The Upper Pines Campground recreational vehicle dump station would be moved away from the river and placed near this check station. The Lower Pines amphitheater would be relocated to the current site of the concessioner stable parking area (the stable would be removed). Showers would be added to campgrounds wherever feasible for convenience and to reduce crowding at other Valley shower facilities.

Campgrounds would be redesigned to better separate sites by using natural and design features (the same as under Alternative 2). Campsite density (number of sites per acre) would generally remain the same as at present. Some designated recreational vehicle sites in Upper Pines and possibly Lower Pines would have utility hookups to reduce generator use and associated noise. Walk-in sites would have parking available nearby, except for the new Tenaya Creek walk-to sites, which would have no associated parking and would be available only to campers entering Yosemite Valley by means other than private motor vehicle (e.g., bus, bicycle, hiking).

Campsites at the former Upper River and Lower River Campgrounds, as well as a portion of Lower Pines Campground, which were damaged by or removed following the 1997 flood, would not be reconstructed. These areas would be restored by re-establishing natural topography, hydrology, and native riparian or California black oak communities, as described for Alternative 2. North Pines Campground, which was also affected by flooding in January 1997, would be removed to preserve and restore highly valued natural resource areas. New walk-in and walk-to campsites would be constructed in Upper Pines and along Tenaya Creek. New group sites and a backpackers campground would be established east of Curry Village.

At Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground), 32 existing sites would be retained; as described for Alternative 2, the five sites west of the intermittent creek would be removed to provide a buffer for the new Indian Cultural Center (see Volume II, Appendix H, Considering Cumulative Effects). Under this alternative, 17 new sites would be constructed adjacent to the existing campground, including the area of the former gas station. Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground) would continue to be managed as a first-come, first-served campground, but visitors would be able to secure a site at entrance station visitor centers as well as at the campground.

Yellow Pine Campground would no longer be used as an unimproved group campground for park-sponsored volunteer groups. The area would be restored to riparian and conifer communities. The campground would be relocated to a site previously used for this purpose at Foresta.

LODGING

A total of 982 overnight lodging units would be available in Yosemite Valley (see table 2-27, and Vol. Ic, plate 3-2). Accommodations would continue to be provided with a range of styles and prices, including 202 rustic, 360 economy, 297 mid-scale, and 123 deluxe units (see Vol. Ib, Glossary, for definitions of room types). The number of units available to commercial tour operators and conference/group meetings would continue to be capped to ensure availability of lodging to independent travelers.

Housekeeping Camp

Housekeeping Camp provides visitors the opportunity to rent developed camping shelters adjacent to the Merced River. Beds and a picnic table are provided in each unit. Housekeeping Camp would be redesigned to accommodate 52 individual housekeeping units (all at the rustic level). All 212 units within the River Protection Overlay and highly valued resource areas would be removed (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-5).

Curry Village

Originally known as Camp Curry, this complex has been in operation since 1899 and has offered rustic lodging facilities to generations of Yosemite visitors. Curry Village would provide activities and services similar to those currently offered, although there would be changes in circulation, facility locations, and numbers of lodging units (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-5). Improvements would be made to some lodging facilities, while others would be relocated outside the rockfall zone. The total number of lodging units would be reduced from 628 to 420 (see table 2-28).

Overnight guests would continue to have the option of staying in existing rustic tent cabins (150 units) in cabin-with-bath units (252 units–103 existing and 149 new), or in Stoneman Lodge rooms (18 units). In response to visitor demand, to provide for winter use, and as prescribed in the 1992 Concession Services Plan, cabin-with-bath units would replace all cabin-without-bath units. The registration building (historic Camp Curry Post Office) would remain, and the lounge (historic Camp Curry registration office) would be rehabilitated and used as an information center as well as a lounge. Of the 420 lodging units at Curry Village, 150 would be rustic and 270 would be economy units.

Yosemite Lodge

Yosemite Lodge would provide activities and services similar to those now offered, although there would be changes in circulation, facility locations, and numbers of lodging units (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-3). Existing and replacement lodging units would total 387 rooms, an increase of 142 rooms over existing levels (see table 2-29).

The January 1997 flood damaged four motel structures that were temporarily repaired and are still in use at Yosemite Lodge. These four motel buildings (Maple, Juniper, Alder, and Hemlock), along with Laurel and Birch, would be removed to accommodate rerouting of Southside Drive and redesign of the Yosemite Lodge. Motel units remaining would include Cedar, Elderberry, and Manzanita. Cottage units remaining would include Aspen, Azalea, Cottonwood, Dogwood, Tamarack, and Willow.

Three 3-story motel buildings and five 2-story cottages of similar architectural design and appearance to Pine and Oak Cottages would be constructed. A total of 117 lodging units at Yosemite Lodge would be economy units, and 270 units would be mid-scale.

The Ahwahnee

The opportunity to stay at The Ahwahnee, Yosemite Valley's grand National Historic Landmark hotel, would not change under this alternative. The Ahwahnee would provide activities and services similar to those now offered, but there would be some changes in circulation and parking configuration. Its existing 123 deluxe lodging rooms (99 hotel rooms and 24 cabin/cottage rooms) would be retained (the same as under Alternative 2). The one Ahwahnee cottage that is within the River Protection Overlay would be retained, as it is a contributing element to The Ahwahnee National Register historic property.

FOOD AND RETAIL SERVICES

Taft Toe

Limited food and retail facilities would be provided at the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center.

Yosemite Lodge

The interconnected buildings at the center of Yosemite Lodge would continue to be the location of food and retail services. The three restaurants and one gift shop would remain unchanged; the Mountain Room Bar would be redesigned as a public lobby and lounge. The main gift store would be permanently reduced in size, matching its present winter configuration.

The swimming pool, bicycle rental stand, and snack bar would also remain in their current locations. All facilities could be redesigned over time to improve guest services. The post office building would be removed (the same as under Alternative 2).

A new building would be constructed for lodge registration, and the existing registration building would be adaptively used for informal seating, administrative and interpretive functions, information, and Valley tour reservations, as described for Alternative 2. The Cliff Room and the outdoor amphitheater in the courtyard would be improved and would continue to be used primarily for evening interpretive programs, group meetings, seminars, and other special functions.

A new maintenance/housekeeping facility would be constructed behind the cafeteria and restaurant complex to replace housekeeping facilities damaged by flooding. All housekeeping, storage, maintenance, and associated management space would be consolidated in this new facility (the same as under Alternative 2).

The service station would not be replaced. A mobile repair truck, designed to deal with minor emergency services and provide gas on the road, would continue to be operated; this service would be expanded as needed. Service stations at other park locations would be retained.

Yosemite Village

The Village Store building would continue to be used for its present purposes (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-4), but gift sales and the grocery function would be reduced from the current level; the deli operation would be moved here from the Degnan's building. A short-term locker/storage facility, where visitors could check their belongings, would be designed into the building. Recycling, ATM, check cashing, and transportation kiosk functions would be retained. Under this alternative, the Village Grill would be expanded for more indoor seating. The sport shop function would be incorporated with the sport/mountaineering shop at Curry Village.

The Degnan's building, which currently houses a deli, restaurant, grill, and retail gift sales, would be redesigned for expanded food service. The present gift shop would be removed. Inside seating would be increased.

As described for Alternative 2, the historic Village Garage building would be removed; public garage functions would be relocated to El Portal.

The Art Activity Center would continue to provide artistic activities for the public, but it would be moved to its previous location at the current Wilderness Center. Under this alternative, the bank building (which currently houses the Art Activity Center) would be removed and the area restored.

The historic Ansel Adams Gallery photography and gift shop would remain. The historic post office in Yosemite Village, and the medical clinic would be retained (the same as under Alternative 2); under this alternative, the dental clinic would also be retained.

The Ahwahnee

The Ahwahnee dining room, gift shop, sweet shop, and bar would remain. Services offered at The Ahwahnee would remain much as they are and would not take on a more resort- or spa-type character.

Happy Isles

The ice cream and snack stand that was destroyed by rockfall in 1996 would not be replaced; no food service would be available at Happy Isles (the same as under Alternative 2).

Curry Village

The Curry Pavilion and Meadow Deck food service areas would be redesigned as proposed in the Concession Services Plan.

As described for Alternative 2, the grocery and gift functions in the Meadow Deck building would be separated to reduce congestion. The grocery would be substantially expanded to include deli operations and a camp store.

The outdoor amphitheater, lounge, and pool would be rehabilitated or replaced.

The Curry Ice Rink would be relocated north of the Curry Pavilion and Meadow Deck buildings, as described for Alternative 2. The Mountain Shop, along with bicycle and ski rental functions, would be relocated to the ice rink area to consolidate space and recreational uses. Raft rentals would occur seasonally at this location. A short-term locker/storage facility, where visitors could check their belongings, would also be designed into the building.

The seasonal post office would be removed; mailboxes would be provided in employee housing areas. Registration would remain in its current location (the historic Camp Curry Post Office).

Transportation

The major transportation actions that distinguish this alternative include:

This alternative would result in a major reduction in vehicle travel in the eastern portion of Yosemite Valley. Day-visitor parking, a visitor center, and a transit center would be located near the south end of the El Capitan crossover. All day-visitor traffic, tour buses, and regional transit buses would stop at Taft Toe. Day visitors would only travel to the east Valley on shuttle buses. The number of vehicles passing the Yosemite Chapel on Southside Drive near Sentinel Bridge would be reduced from about 7,200 vehicles on a typically busy day (1998) to about 2,400 vehicles. There would be approximately 330 new shuttle bus trips per day from the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center into the east Valley.

TRAVELER INFORMATION AND TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT

The broad goals of Yosemite's General Management Plan include the reduction of traffic congestion and crowding in Yosemite Valley. Progress toward achieving these goals would be accomplished by developing a traveler information and traffic management system to provide visitors with information about where to park and whether overnight accommodations were available in the Valley well before they arrive in the Valley. The system would assist visitors in selecting the best means of travel for their specific needs. If required, to assure that the number of vehicles east of El Capitan crossover did not exceed available parking, a traffic check station would be developed at Taft Toe (see Actions Common to All Action Alternatives at the beginning of this chapter).

YOSEMITE VALLEY PARKING

Day-Visitor Parking

Day-visitor parking facilities in the Valley would change. Under this alternative, a new parking area for 1,622 day-visitor vehicles and a new visitor and transit center would be constructed at Taft Toe near El Capitan crossover (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-1). No out-of-Valley parking would be needed. From the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center, shuttle buses would transport visitors to Valley destinations; no day-visitor traffic would travel east of the Taft Toe parking area. As part of the traveler information and traffic management system, all day visitors arriving in private vehicles would park their vehicles in the new facility. When the parking area was full, day visitors arriving at park entrance stations would be directed to other Yosemite National Park destinations, or they could be advised of alternative modes (regional transit or tour buses) to travel to the Valley.

Tour buses carrying day visitors and regional transit buses would travel directly to the visitor/transit center at Taft Toe and unload their passengers. Up to 16 bus bays would be provided for tour and regional transit buses. Visitors would then board shuttle buses to destinations in the Valley. Visitors could also travel by bicycle or on foot on paved and unpaved trails from the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center.

Overnight Parking

Overnight visitors with lodging or camping reservations or wilderness permits would drive directly to their lodging or campground, or to the Wilderness parking area (which would be located at its current location east of Curry Village). Locations for overnight visitor parking in the Valley are shown in table 2-30. To allow overnight guests the opportunity to stop at the visitor center as they enter the Valley, 50 short-term parking spaces would be provided at Taft Toe for visitors with overnight accommodations in the Valley. To reduce traffic and congestion, parking for overnight visitors would no longer be provided at other destinations or along Valley roads. Vehicles would remain parked in assigned areas unless they were needed for travel to out-of-Valley destinations. Travel within the Valley to trailheads, activity areas, and facilities would be by shuttle bus, bicycle, or on foot.

As described for Alternative 2, parking for new walk-in campsites and Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground) would be provided within walking distance of the sites. No parking would be provided at the Tenaya Creek walk-to campsites, as they would be designated for overnight campers arriving in the Valley by means other than private vehicle. Some overnight visitors would arrive by commercial tour bus. These buses would drive visitors directly to their lodging or campground areas. Buses would then park at one of 15 designated parking spaces at Yosemite Lodge (the same as under Alternative 2).

Employee Parking

Parking for National Park Service, concessioner, and other employees residing in the Valley would be located at or near each residence.

As described for Alternative 2, most employees commuting from outside the Valley would be required to use an employee transportation system. This system would be developed to meet the needs of employees with different schedules and could include regional transit options or car and vanpools. Approximately 1,200 workers would commute to work in the Valley in the summer.

Employees who live west of El Portal along the Highway 140 corridor and work in Yosemite Valley could drive to a parking area in El Portal and take employee shuttles into the park. Approximately 60 parking spaces would be provided at El Portal for this purpose. Some employees (e.g., late-night and early-morning shift workers) would still drive their private vehicles to the Valley and park in designated spaces as prescribed by the traveler information and traffic management system (the same as under Alternative 2).

YOSEMITE VALLEY ROADS

Summary of road and circulation changes:

Bridge summary:

Valley Access via the El Portal Road

As described in Actions Common to All Action Alternatives, the section of El Portal Road between the El Portal and Big Oak Flat Road intersection and Pohono Bridge would be improved. Road improvements would be designed to minimize the chance of road failure during flood events, to improve safety, and to minimize damage to riparian areas by focusing visitor use.

West Valley (El Capitan Bridge to Pohono Bridge)

Minimal changes to road circulation would occur in the western half of the Valley, as described in Alternative 2. Southside Drive from Pohono Bridge to El Capitan Bridge would continue to be a two-lane, one-way road eastbound, and Northside Drive would be a two-lane, one-way road westbound. El Capitan crossover would be one-way northbound across the Merced River at the El Capitan Bridge between Southside and Northside Drives. Turnouts would be retained for emergency use and short-term viewing of scenic features.

Under this alternative, as part of the traveler information and traffic management system, a new traffic check station may have to be constructed near Taft Toe, in the area of El Capitan crossover on Southside Drive (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-1, and Actions Common to All Action Alternatives). Day visitors with assigned parking and visitors with overnight reservations in the Valley would continue eastbound on Southside Drive. When the Valley day-visitor parking area was full, day visitors would proceed across El Capitan crossover to Northside Drive to continue out of the Valley to other park destinations.

East Valley (El Capitan Bridge to Curry Village and the Campgrounds)

Southside Drive from El Capitan Crossover to Curry Village and the Campgrounds

As described for Alternative 2, from the El Capitan crossover east through Curry Village, Southside Drive would be converted to two-way traffic with one lane in each direction (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-1). This section of roadway would be widened to no more than 26 feet, accommodating 11-foot lanes and a 2-foot paved shoulder on each side of the two-way road. From the Yosemite Chapel to Sentinel Bridge, the road would be realigned to improve the approach to Sentinel Bridge and facilitate traffic circulation. Near Curry Village, the portion of Southside Drive that crosses Stoneman Meadow would be removed, and all traffic would be rerouted along a realigned Curry Village Road. This would provide two-way access to Curry Village and the campgrounds. Curry Village Road would be realigned along the southern edge of the historic Curry Orchard, following an existing access road through Boys Town to the campgrounds and Wilderness parking. The access road to Southside Drive at the western edge of the Curry Orchard would be removed. The one-way loop road to Curry Village registration and parking would remain, although the parking area would be redesigned.

Southside Drive to Yosemite Village and Yosemite Lodge

Traffic from the west Valley or from Curry Village would cross Sentinel Bridge to reach Yosemite Village, The Ahwahnee, and Yosemite Lodge. This road, the Sentinel crossover, would be two-way with one lane in each direction (the same as under Alternative 2).

Yosemite Lodge Area

As described for Alternative 2, Northside Drive in the Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground) area would be relocated south of the Lodge to reduce conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians and to provide safer pedestrian access between the Lodge and Yosemite Falls (see Vol. Ic, plate 3-3). Vehicular circulation to Yosemite Lodge would be routed across Yosemite Creek via a new motor vehicle bridge just south of the existing Yosemite Creek Bridge. Restricted vehicle access would also be provided to the proposed Indian Cultural Center. West of the cultural center site, Northside Drive would be closed to vehicles and converted to a multi-use paved trail for bicycles and hikers (it would also be available as an emergency route).

TRANSIT

This alternative would provide 1,622 parking spaces for day-visitor vehicles at Taft Toe. No out-of-Valley parking locations would be required for this alternative. Shuttle buses would transport day and overnight visitors throughout the Valley.

Shuttles operating within Yosemite Valley would provide service year-round. Generally, the peak visitation season for Yosemite National Park occurs from mid-June through Labor Day weekend. April, May, September, and October are the shoulder season months, with intermediate levels of visitor use. Visitation is lowest from November through March. The operating hours of the shuttle routes and the frequency of service would be adjusted within each season as required to meet visitor needs, and visitation would be managed so as not to exceed the carrying capacity of visitor use areas.

Valley Shuttles

The Valley shuttle system would provide transportation for day visitors parking at Taft Toe, those who ride regional transit or tour buses, as well as for overnight visitors. The shuttle system provided under this alternative would consist of four separate shuttle routes, all of which would cycle through the new Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center:

These routes would converge at the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center. This facility would provide interpretive/orientation and transfer opportunities. Valley shuttle buses would use a separate loading area adjacent to the bus bays provided for tour buses and regional transit buses.

Valley Shuttle Service

During the busiest times of day in the peak season, Valley shuttle buses would circulate the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center as follows: one bus approximately every 7.5 minutes for the Ahwahnee Connector, one bus approximately every 5 minutes for the Yosemite Lodge Connector, one bus approximately every 6 minutes for the Happy Isles Connector, and one bus approximately every 15 minutes for the Bridalveil Circulator. It is estimated that these four routes combined would result in one bus departing every 1.8 minutes from Taft Toe. Peak-season shuttle service would be provided between early morning and late evening (hours could be expanded for special events). Table 2-31 presents estimated characteristics of the Valley shuttle system proposed for Alternative 3.

Valley Shuttle Vehicles

The shuttle buses used on routes operated within Yosemite Valley would be designed to operate over the gentle grades on Valley roads and to allow passengers to get on and off the bus easily at the many stops. Buses would use the best-available fuel and propulsion systems designed for the special characteristics of travel within Yosemite Valley. Buses would be selected to minimize noise and air pollutant emissions, while providing sufficient capacity and cost-effective, reliable service. Buses would be replaced or modified to take advantage of advances in fuel propulsion technology as they became available.

Regional Transit

Day visitors who do not park in Yosemite Valley would have the option of traveling to the Valley via regional transit or other modes of transportation not requiring parking. These buses would deliver passengers directly to the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center.

Commercial Tour Buses

Commercial tour buses would continue to bring about 14% of day visitors and lodging guests to Yosemite Valley in the summer. Tour buses carrying day visitors would park at the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center. Overnight tour buses would park at Yosemite Lodge.

Summary

Combined Valley shuttle bus operations would equate to one bus at the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center every 1.8 minutes during the busiest times in the peak season.

Park Operations

National Park Service operations in Yosemite Valley would be scaled down to the level of district operations, similar to Tuolumne Meadows and Wawona. Both the National Park Service and concessioner headquarters functions would be removed from the Valley and relocated to El Portal (the same as under Alternative 2).

As described for Alternative 2, National Park Service and concessioner administrative stables operations, as well as the parkwide trails operation, would be relocated to McCauley Ranch in Foresta. Since McCauley Ranch was identified as a possible Wilderness addition in the 1984 California Wilderness Act, a Wilderness suitability assessment would be prepared. If the McCauley Ranch addition is determined to be suitable for designation as Wilderness, stable operations would be supported in the current National Park Service stable facility. If located at this site the consolidated stable operation would support only district stable and trails operations and not parkwide trails operations. The historic concessioner stable would be considered for adaptive reuse outside the Valley, perhaps at the new stable function at McCauley Ranch.

If the consolidated stable operation is moved to McCauley Ranch, then the access to the area would be improved by widening the road and possibly replacing the bridge over Crane Creek to allow for stock trailers and hay trucks. Access improvements would be identified during the site design process, which would allow for the participation of the National Park Service and concession employees, residents of Foresta, Mariposa County officials, and other interested parties. Under this alternative, a corral at the current NPS stable in Yosemite Village would provide a staging area for limited NPS and concessioner operations; the staging area would have parking for five trailers.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

In Yosemite Valley, the NPS maintenance area would be redesigned to accommodate essential district offices and maintenance shops. The historic NPS Operations Building (Fort Yosemite) and associated shops would be removed. National Park Service administration and headquarters functions would be relocated to El Portal and located with existing National Park Service operations facilities at Railroad Flat in the western portion of El Portal. Depending on land development constraints in El Portal or other considerations, the relocated headquarters functions for both the National Park Service and concessioner could be relocated to neighboring communities. If the National Park Service pursued this opportunity, appropriate environmental review would be completed.

The following National Park Service functions and offices would be removed from Yosemite Valley:

The following functions and offices would remain in Yosemite Valley (the same as under Alternative 2):

The historic Superintendent's House (Residence 1), at the edge of Cook's Meadow, and its garage would be removed. A new fire station would be constructed at the south edge of the Yosemite Village Historic District to house the National Park Service and concessioner fire engines and emergency service operations. Yellow Pine Campground would no longer be used as an unimproved group campsite for park-sponsored volunteers; instead, the area would be restored to a conifer/riparian community. This campground would be relocated to a site previously used for this purpose at Foresta.

Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center

Under this alternative, the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center would provide visitor orientation and limited visitor services. It would also provide parking for 1,622 day-visitor vehicles and serve as a transportation hub for shuttle, transit, and tour buses, requiring up to 16 bus bays plus a loading area for Valley shuttles. Shuttle bus support facilities, fueling, light maintenance, and associated vehicle storage for Valley shuttles would also be provided at the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center. Heavy vehicle maintenance and associated vehicle storage would be located at El Portal. For regional transit and tour buses, the National Park Service would provide layover areas for daytime use at the shuttle bus maintenance area, but overnight vehicle storage and maintenance would be the responsibility of the service provider.

Shuttle Employee Requirements

Under this alternative, a total of 112 additional employees would be required to operate the Valley shuttle system. Of these employees, 80 supervisors and drivers would be dedicated to the Valley shuttle; the remaining 32 personnel would support the shuttle system. Winter season operations would require 77 Valley shuttle drivers and supervisors and 32 other employees, for a total of 109 employees (see table 2-32).

CONCESSIONER AND OTHER ENTITIES

The administrative headquarters functions for the park's concessioner would be relocated to new facilities in Village Center in El Portal, or at the option of the concessioner, to another out-of-park location. Under this alternative, the historic Concessioner Headquarters Building would be removed and the area restored to natural conditions. The concessioner would retain the warehouse building in the Valley to support operations, including inventory and supply distribution, building maintenance shops, security, recycling, uniforms, personnel, payroll, housing, and computer support (the same as under Alternative 2). A new fire station would be constructed at the south edge of the Yosemite Village Historic District to house the National Park Service and concessioner fire engines. The historic Village Garage would be removed and shuttle bus servicing functions would be relocated to Taft Toe under this alternative. Heavy maintenance of concessioner vehicles would be relocated to a new garage facility in El Portal (the same as under Alternative 2). Site-specific locations for these facilities would be evaluated and determined during the site design and development process.

Employee Housing

Housing is necessary to accommodate employees who are responsible for natural and cultural resource protection, serving the needs of park visitors, and meeting the operational requirements of the park. During the summer, over 18,200 people per day may visit Yosemite Valley. Only by providing employee housing at or within a reasonable proximity to Yosemite Valley would resources be protected and the needs of these visitors be met.

HOUSING PROGRAM OVERVIEW

This alternative would provide up to 1,862 total employee to support Yosemite Valley district functions (National Park Service, primary concessioner and other partners). The housing would be distributed as follows:

This alternative identifies locations that can be used for employee housing within Yosemite National Park (Yosemite Valley and Foresta) and the El Portal Administrative Site. These locations have been identified in order to guide potential future land use. However, to the greatest degree possible the National Park Service would attempt to facilitate the private acquisition of housing in the region for a reasonable portion of the National Park Service and park partner workforce. Prior to the construction of housing, the National Park Service would encourage employees to find private housing in the region, and work with county governments and, as appropriate, the private sector, to develop strategies to house Yosemite National Park employees collectively.

Because the National Park Service does not have authority over the use of private lands in the region outside Yosemite National Park and the El Portal Administrative Site, and because an ample supply of housing is not guaranteed, the National Park Service would be prepared to meet housing needs within areas under its jurisdiction in Yosemite Valley, El Portal, Wawona, and Foresta. If an adequate supply of employee housing were not available in the local region, then the National Park Service would construct housing in these areas. Furthermore, the National Park Service recognizes that active involvement in the appropriate county and state government processes, and compliance with county ordinance and state government laws and regulations (such as the California Environmental Quality Act) would be required and essential when considering land use options outside the boundaries of Yosemite National Park.

Presently, during peak summer season, the combined total workforce serving Yosemite Valley is approximately 2,183¹ and housing is provided for a total of 1,620² employees Therefore, approximately 563³ employees (or 26%) of the total workforce is housed privately within the region, including privately owned homes on National Park Service leased land in Old El Portal.⁴

This alternative would increase the Yosemite Valley related workforce by 171⁵ employees for a total of 2,354⁶ employees to accommodate increases in staffing levels associated with alternative actions. To meet the needs of this additional workforce this alternative would provide an additional 171 employee bed spaces. Again, it is expected that some employees would seek housing in the region. Therefore, this alternative has anticipated that a minimum of 12 of the 171 additional employees could seek housing in the region, potentially increasing the number of employees privately housed from 563 to 575 of the total workforce.

The related potential additional demand for 12 more employees to be housed in the region would likely occur over a broadly dispersed area and occur gradually throughout plan implementation (15 to 20 years), thereby allowing for a sufficient level of housing to become available over time in the local communities. Again, because the National Park Service does not have the authority over the use of private lands in the region outside Yosemite National Park, the number of beds proposed in this alternative would meet housing needs within Yosemite Valley, El Portal, Wawona, and Foresta if housing were not available in the region.

SITE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

Upon completion of this plan, site-specific studies would be prepared to evaluate design options for new housing and administrative facilities. These studies would include, if necessary, additional environmental review, evaluation and compliance, archeological surveys and data collection, ethnographic resource inventories and evaluation, historic resource studies, biological assessments, erosion control plans, geologic assessments, and the development of architectural guidelines. Housing types and densities, and support facility locations might change if site-specific constraints were identified, if National Park Service or concessioner staffing programs changed, or if housing program requirements change in response to changes in the demand for housing.

The site design and development process would allow for the participation of National Park Service and concession employees, residents of El Portal, Wawona, and Foresta, Mariposa County officials, and other interested parties in the preparation of site development studies for housing, administrative functions, and community or commercial facilities. These processes would consider appropriate county and/or town planning area specific plans and would prescribe development characteristics and criteria that would be compatible with the character, density, and scale of existing development. Site-specific environmental review, evaluation, and compliance would also be completed as appropriate during the site design process on a project-by-project basis.

HOUSING PROGRAM

A total of 689 National Park Service, primary concessioner, and other park employee beds would be located in Yosemite Valley. This represents an application of criteria proposed in the 1992 Draft Yosemite Valley Housing Plan.

A total of 1,047 employee beds would be located within the El Portal Administrative Site. Of these, 290 are existing, although 104 of these would be relocated from the Village Center and the Trailer Village (Hennesseyís Ranch) to allow for redevelopment. Employee housing to replace those beds relocated from Yosemite Valley (574 beds) and from Cascades and Arch Rock (12 beds) would be constructed, as would facilities for up to an additional 171 beds to accommodate present unmet needs and potential future growth as a result of the operational changes associated with this alternative.

There would be a total of 1,862 beds in Yosemite Valley, El Portal, Foresta and Wawona. Of these 1,422 would be allocated for the primary concessioner, 346 for the National Park Service, and 94 for others (see table 2-33). The total number of beds was determined by evaluating the specific operational requirements of this alternative and then projecting the related staffing requirements.

Following the January 1997 flood, temporary concessioner housing (345 beds) was established at several locations in Yosemite Valley, including the Yosemite Village area (80 beds), Yosemite Lodge (82 beds), and Curry Village (183 beds). All of these temporary beds would be replaced.

Minor adjustments to the housing number, type, and/or density for each location may be needed in response to the site design process, or constraints or conditions not identified during this planning process. If significant adjustments are required, additional site-specific environmental review may be necessary.

Yosemite Valley Housing Actions

Three principal locations are identified for up to 689 employee beds in Yosemite Valley: Curry Village, Yosemite Village, and The Ahwahnee. A total of 588 employee beds would be removed from Yosemite Valley.

All temporary housing in Yosemite Valley would be removed and replaced with permanent structures, either in Yosemite Valley, El Portal or Foresta. Areas in Yosemite Valley to be used for employee housing are generally within existing developed or disturbed areas. This alternative would remove some housing from highly valued resource areas and the rockfall zone and relocate it (see Vol. 1c, plates D and E). Concentrating housing in multi-level (two- or three-story) buildings would minimize building footprints.

Yosemite Valley housing numbers (beds), locations, and distribution by employer under this alternative are summarized in table 2-34.

Yosemite Lodge

The temporary modular housing in the parking lot (82 beds), and cabins (8 beds) would be removed (the same as under Alternative 2).

Yosemite Village

Under this alternative, the historic Ahwahnee Row houses and apartments (22 beds) adjacent to Ahwahnee Meadow, plus the Indian Creek apartments (14 beds), would be removed and the areas restored to natural conditions. The Y Apartments (8 beds) would be removed, and the area would be restored to natural conditions. The historic apartment next to the Village Garage (1 bed) would be removed, and the area would be redeveloped. All 45 existing beds in this area would be removed.

Three dormitories—Lower Tecoya (234 beds), Hospital Row (12 beds), and Lost Arrow (36 beds)—would be retained. The Upper Tecoya houses (26 beds) and the Middle Tecoya houses and dormitories (13 beds near the medical clinic) would be retained. The apartments above the post office (4 beds), apartments adjacent to the Lost Arrow dormitory (3 beds), apartments behind The Ansel Adams Gallery (3 beds), and the Yosemite Elementary School Teacherage (3 beds) would be retained (the same as under Alternative 2).

The temporary Lost Arrow cabins (80 beds) would be removed from the Yosemite Village Historic District. The historic cabins at Camp 1 (3 beds) and the historic house (1 bed) behind the current visitor center would be removed (the same as under Alternative 2).

Housing in the Yosemite Village Historic District and at the Rangersí Club (72 beds combined) would be retained (the same as under Alternative 2).

The Ahwahnee

The historic Ahwahnee dormitory would be retained but remodeled; it would accommodate 13 fewer beds (reduced from 43 to 30 beds). The three non-historic tent cabins (6 beds) adjacent to the dorm would be removed, and the area would be restored (the same as under Alternative 2).

Curry Village

As described under Alternative 2, a total of 37 beds would be removed. These include Cooks' cabins (12 beds), Cooks' tents (eight beds), Huff House studios (4 beds), Huff House trailers (6 beds), Curry Village manager housing (Cabin 101 [1 bed]), Tresidder Residence studios (2 beds), and Mother Curry Bungalow studios (4 beds). Some historic structures could be adaptively reused. Temporary housing would be removed from within and adjacent to the Camp Curry Historic District: Huff House tent cabins (50 beds), Huff House cabins (104 beds), and Boys Town cabins (29 beds). The Boys Town tent cabins (178 beds) would be removed, and the area would be redeveloped. The Terrace (156 beds) would be removed. Two new dormitories (up to three stories and 253 beds) would be constructed in the Huff House area, adjacent to the Camp Curry Historic District.

Concessioner Stable

Two houses (2 beds), three apartments (3 beds), seven cabins (14 beds), and 10 tent cabins (30 beds) at the historic concessioner stable would be removed and the area restored to natural conditions (the same as under Alternative 2).

Housing Support Facilities

In Yosemite Village, areas have been set aside and designated for necessary community support facilities. These include the post office, fuel service, and a medical and dental clinic. The employee wellness center, housing management office, and housing-related storage space would be located at the new Huff House dormitories in Curry Village. As described for Alternative 2, a new employee cafeteria would be constructed in the Curry Village area to reduce seating and use conflicts with park visitors. If possible, the same kitchen would service both the guest and employee cafeterias. The employee cafeteria at Curry Village would also serve as a community center.

Utilities

Water would be obtained from existing wells in Yosemite Valley. All sewage would be treated at the El Portal Wastewater Treatment Plant. Electrical and phone service would be upgraded to accommodate the additional loads.

El Portal Housing Actions

Legislation in 1958 established the El Portal Administrative Site for the purpose of locating utilities, facilities, and services required for the operation of Yosemite National Park (see Vol. II, Appendix A). Much of the available land suitable for development within the El Portal Administrative Site would be used for housing. Housing needs in El Portal could change based on the potential for some employees to obtain private housing in the region, in which case the overall need for housing in El Portal could be reduced.

There would be 1,047 total beds within the El Portal Administrative Site, including 290 existing beds (104 of which would be relocated within El Portal), 574 beds relocated from Yosemite Valley, 12 beds relocated from Cascades and Arch Rock, and up to 171 new beds to accommodate existing unmet needs and projected growth (see table 2-35). This alternative considers six locations in El Portal as suitable for employee housing or other facilities: Hillside East, Hillside West, Village Center, Old El Portal, Rancheria Flat, and Hennesseyís Ranch (includes Trailer Village and Abbieville).

Hillside East

A total of 40 apartments or studio apartments (40 beds) would be constructed.

Hillside West

Thirty houses (30 beds) would be constructed.

Hennessey's Ranch (Trailer Village and Abbieville)

All existing trailer and modular housing (59 units/68 beds) would be removed and the area redeveloped as employee housing and parking. Employees living in these housing units would either move to new housing constructed in El Portal or find other housing outside the El Portal Administrative Site (the same as under Alternative 2). Under this alternative, Hennessey's Ranch site would be redeveloped with 656 beds in apartments, studios, and/or dormitories. The four Abbieville houses would be removed. The redevelopment could be phased as the Trailer Village closes.

The area would be protected from flooding by extending and raising the existing dike. This would place the area out of the 100-year floodplain, as defined by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Structures would be engineered and elevated to withstand flood inundation.

Old El Portal

A total of 17 one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes (1 bed each) would be built on available lots. The 71 existing (1 bed each) single-family homes are privately owned on federally leased land and would be retained (the same as under Alternative 2).

Rancheria Flat

As described for Alternative 2, a total of seven new two-, three-, or four-bedroom, single-family detached homes (1 bed each) would be constructed. The 19 homes (1 bed each) constructed between 1995 and 1997 (Phase 2) would be retained. The existing Mission 66 homes (21 beds) and apartments (58 beds) would be retained. The two duplexes (4 beds) would be retained. The three historic National Lead Company houses would be retained and rehabilitated. Under this alternative, 12 new one- and two-bedroom apartments (12 beds) would be constructed adjacent to the Phase 2 apartment complex. Also, 68 studio or dormitory units would be constructed in the Rancheria Flat area.

Village Center

A total of 35 one- and two-bedroom apartments, studios or dorm (35 beds) would be constructed under this alternative. The nine privately owned houses (9 beds) on federally leased land (four of which are historic) would be retained. The Motor Inn cabins (24 beds) would be removed. The historic El Portal Hotel (12 beds) would no longer be used for housing, but would be removed or adaptively reused.

Housing Support Facilities

This alternative includes general land-use designations for housing and housing support facilities to be located in the El Portal Administrative Site. The size and exact location of the support facilities, as well as the specific locations and size of employee housing units, are beyond the scope of this plan. These details would be formulated during the site design and development process. If necessary, additional environmental review would be completed as a part of the site design.

The Village Center has been designated for necessary support facilities and commercial services. These could include a community center, post office, medical clinic, enlarged grocery store/deli, laundry, recreational facilities, wellness center, hair care, office spaces, and gas station. Where feasible, park and open space areas, such as a town square, would be provided.

As described for Alternative 2, a multi-use paved (pedestrian/bicycle) trail would be developed from Rancheria Flat through Hennessey's Ranch, to the Village Center. This trail would also include two footbridges across the Merced River: one between Village Center and Hennessey's Ranch, and another between Hennessey's Ranch and Rancheria Flat. If feasible, one link of the multi-use-paved trail, between Village Center and Hennessey's Ranch, could be via a modified Highway 140 vehicle bridge.

An employee dining and recreation facility with a swimming pool would be constructed at Hennessey's Ranch (the same as under Alternative 2).

An employee childcare facility would be provided in El Portal, possibly adjacent to the elementary school in Rancheria Flat (the same as under Alternative 2).

Utilities

Water would be obtained from additional wells in the El Portal area. All sewage would be treated at the El Portal Wastewater Treatment Plant. Electrical and phone service would be upgraded to accommodate the additional loads. The abandoned sewage treatment plant in Rancheria Flat would be removed.

Wawona Housing Actions

No new housing would be built in Wawona. Government-owned housing would continue to be used for park and concession employees. Future land-use planning in Wawona would be in accordance with the Wawona Town Plan.

Foresta Housing Actions

A total of 14 houses were lost in the 1990 A-Rock Fire. The 14 houses would be reconstructed in Foresta; and would be used to replace beds removed from Yosemite Valley.

Cascades and Arch Rock Housing Actions

Four historic houses (4 beds) would be removed from the Cascades area and the beds relocated to El Portal. At Arch Rock, 8 beds would be removed and relocated to El Portal; the historic structures would be adaptively reused (the same as under Alternative 2).

Development Costs

It is estimated that the development costs for Alternative 3 would be $413,451,408 (see table 2-36). These costs would be in addition to the current park operations costs identified in Alternative 1. See Vol. II, Appendix M for the sequencing of development proposed for the Preferred Alternative.