![]() NPS Current and Scheduled Impacts (Updated 07/03/25)
Lehman Caves Electrical Upgrade and ReplacementThis SNPLMA funded project will replace the aging lighting system inside Lehman Caves with modernized equipment and infrastructure. As it currently stands, parts are no longer manufactured for a number of cave systems, and sections of the cave are forced to go dark as components fail. The original lighting system was installed in 1941 and was replaced with the current lighting system in 1977. Status 06/2025: Demolition and construction are slated to begin in Winter of 2025. Anticipated closure of Lehman Caves begins in October for the first phase of the project. Refurbish and Improve the Lower Lehman Creek CampgroundThis project involves redevelopment and expansion of Lower Lehman Creek Campground from 11 to 20 sites, including accessibility upgrades, a host site, information kiosk and trailhead improvements, new waterlines, and an expanded entrance road. Three sites will be upgraded to accommodate those with accessibility needs. Completed ProjectsThis project includes a chip seal, micro surfacing, patching, crack sealing of all paved park roads and parking lots to improve the visitor experience, reduce maintenance costs, and extend the life of the existing pavement surface. Chip seals typically occur on 10 year cycles, with the Scenic Drive only undergoing two since its creation many decades ago. This project will remove aging and ecologically damaging sections of the cave tour path and replace them with updated materials and components allowing for a safer visitor experience and improving the long term infrastructure of the cave tour path. A major renovation to the most heavily trafficked trailhead in the park includes replacement and expansion of asphalt parking lots, accessibility upgrades, crosswalks, a new picnic area, and improved signage.
Dates: Late July 2024 through October 2024. Status 10/16/2024: The Bristlecone Trailhead has reopened and work has been largely completed. This Great American Outdoors Act - Legacy Restoration Fund project replaced the aging sewer collection system and potable water distribution piping in the areas surrounding the Lehman Caves Visitor Center. Previous systems were installed in the 1960s were heavily deteriorating, necessitating replacement. Status 07/03/2025: Work has completed and water and wastewater lines have been replaced. |
Last updated: July 3, 2025