Wind Cave Seeks Comments on Plan for New Airlock

NPS Photo

News Release Date: January 19, 2012

Contact: Tom Farrell, 605-745-1130

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, SD - Wind Cave National Park is soliciting comments on a draft environmental assessment (EA) written to replace the existing revolving door at the cave's Walk-In Entrance. The park's preferred alternative is to replace the current door with a small two-door structure.

"The existing revolving door was constructed in 1992 and after twenty years it has deteriorated to the point where there are numerous air leaks," said park superintendent Vidal Davila. "This project proposes to replace the revolving door with an airlock structure that can accommodate a 40-person tour and create a two-door airlock system that would reduce airflow in and out of the cave through this man-made entrance."

The public is invited to attend an informal open house at the Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center on Tuesday, February 21, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. to discuss the plan with park staff and to comment on the alternatives.

For more information, and for an on-line copy of the EA, visit https://parkplanning.nps.gov/wica. Comments can be submitted via that website or they can be mailed to Superintendent; Wind Cave National Park; 26611 U.S. Highway 385; Hot Springs, SD 57747-9430.

Printed copies of the EA are available by visiting or writing the park. Copies are also on review at the Custer, Hot Springs, and Rapid City public libraries. The comment period runs through Thursday, March 8th.