Denham Introduces Yosemite Bill

The National Park Services is getting closer to purchasing 18 acres of land in Mariposa for a new Yosemite National Park Visitors Center and Administrative Facility.

Congressman Jeff Denham introduced federal legislation to buy the land at a House Natural Resources Committee hearing earlier this week. Plans have been in the development stages for several years. The idea was initially pushed by former Congressman George Radanovich.

Denham says his legislation has bi-partisan support. Financial details regarding the proposed purchase were not immediately made available. Denham indicated that the money to purchase the land would not come from federal tax dollars, rather proceeds collected at the park.

Denham noted that there is growing need for new administrative facilities at the park, and many Yosemite workers reside in Mariposa. The proposal has the support of the Mariposa County Supervisors and the non-profit Yosemite Conservancy.