ASHFORD, Wash. — National Park Service Director Charles "Chuck" Sams III visited Mount Rainier National Park alongside US Rep. Kim Schrier and Mount Rainier National Park Superintendent Greg Dudgeon Monday to tour several infrastructure projects underway and answer questions from some staff members.
"As a kid, we used to come here with my relatives from the Yakima nation, we would pick huckleberries here on the east side of the park," Director Sams said. "The Nisqually River and its deep history with the Nisqually people also tells a wonderful story. Also, the late Billy Frank was a mentor of mine and also knowing he's walked these lands and we can walk where his footsteps have been is always a pleasure to me."
Projects included the Stevens Canyon Road Rehabilitation Project and the Ohanapecosh Campground Rehabilitation Project. Both projects are aimed at maintenance and repairs to keep the park safe and enjoyable for visitors. Superintendent Dudgeon recognized the work of crews and rangers who work every day to keep the park clean and safe.
"In the comfort stations, in the bathrooms, in the water lines that need to be out there- and redesigning parts of the park so it's much more comfortable for visitors coming in and enjoying the park," Director Sams said.
Funding for the work is coming primarily from the Great American Outdoors Act Legacy Restoration Fund and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Engineers tried to project potential future impacts of weather and climate.
"To continue to keep this park open to as many people as possible for as many years as possible with an eye to a changing climate," US Representative Kim Schrier said.
Officials also discussed the need for investments in staffing and policy on housing so park workers are able to afford the cost of living near park sites.