Date: July 21, 2011
Yosemite National Park announces the release of The Ahwahnee Comprehensive Rehabilitation Plan Environmental Assessment (EA). The EA is available for public review and comment from July 21, 2011 to August 23, 2011. The EA analyzes alternatives for a phased, long-term, comprehensive rehabilitation program for The Ahwahnee National Historic Landmark hotel and associated structures.
On July 21, a digital copy of the EA will be available on the National Park Service’s Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/AhwahneeRehab. The public is encouraged to submit comments through the PEPC website.
The EA describes three alternative approaches for compliance with current fire protection and building codes, recommended seismic safety practices, and accessibility standards. In addition, the alternatives propose replacement and/or updating of aging mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, as well as options for improving operational, energy, and water-use efficiencies. The alternatives also provide rehabilitation of historic fabric and features throughout the National Historic Landmark. Alternative 3, the preferred alternative, addresses fire, seismic, life-safety, health, and accessibility code and standard deficiencies; improves obsolete building systems and operational efficiency; and improves visitor experience while minimizing costs and impacts on historic fabric and features to the maximum extent practicable.
The public is invited to discuss the plan with park staff at the park’s monthly Open House on July 27, 2011, at the East Valley Auditorium in Yosemite Valley from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Printed and CD copies of the plan will be available at the Open House. You may also submit comments postmarked by August 23, 2011 to: Superintendent, Yosemite National Park, Attn: The Ahwahnee Comprehensive Rehabilitation Plan, PO Box 577, Yosemite, CA 95389.
