If you've visited a US in recent years, there's a good chance that you've been awed by spectacular scenery, but might have hit a few potholes along the way – literally. Senators are hoping all that will soon change, thanks to a new bill that seeks to extend funding for the country's National Parks. The , which has bipartisan support, aims to restore aging park infrastructure and address overdue maintenance projects that are yet to be completed.
The initiative follows the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) signed in 2020 under President Donald Trump, another bipartisan agreement that authorized $6.5 billion in funding for the National Parks and Public Legacy Restoration Fund through to 2025. The latest act, introduced by Steve Daines, seeks to extend critical funding for some of the with an additional $11.
2 billion over eight years to address critical repair needs across roads, buildings, and outdated water systems. The National Parks across the US include iconic destinations that annually and account for huge economic uplifts through tourism. The newly proposed legislation hopes to ensure positive visitor experiences well into the future.
While new projects are yet to be announced, authors of the bill say they will begin by tackling the estimated $243 million backlog of maintenance that's already been pledged. In Montana alone, that includes $117 million in maintenance at , and $53 million at both the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and National Park. With its annou.