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Fruita, CO - Colorado National Monument Superintendent Lisa Eckert announced that, in light of concerns over the decision making process, she is rescinding the restriction on transportation of hazardous materials on the East Hill of Rim Rock Drive, but will be engaging the community and affected stakeholders on the issue in coming weeks. "While we share everyone's commitment to the continued safety of all who use the roads in the Monument, I understand clearly that there are concerns by some about the process that led to our decision. In the spirit of transparency we plan to more fully reach out to the community and the public as soon as possible," Eckert said. Glade Park residents' access through the park would not have been impacted by the hazardous materials restriction, but fuel trucks serving the community would have been required to use Little Park Road, rather than Rim Rock Drive. Public concerns about the process leading up to the management change and the lack of public input prompted Eckert to postpone any decision on the transportation of hazardous materials on the East Hill until the public can be more fully engaged. Eckert began planning to rescind the new regulations following concerns voiced at a June 16, 2014 meeting between Mesa County officials and Glade Park residents and in other venues. The plans for public engagement are being developed and will be announced soon. The Monument also conducted a series of successful facilitated outreach meetings with the public last year. "The Glade Park community's concerns are valid and I hope to build on the collaboration and mutual support we identified last summer by working again with our friends and neighbors to address all of our concerns," Eckert said. Contact: Rick Frost, rick_frost@nps.gov, 303-987-6732 office, 303-378-0255 cell |
Last updated: February 24, 2015