Additional Transportation Planning To Address Impacts of Transportation on National Parks

Impact dates

1. Apr 22, 2008

   Substantial restoration of natural quiet at Grand Canyon

2. Apr 22, 2001

   Grand Canyon management plan completion if determined necessary

3. Dec 31, 1996

   Final rulemaking action on Grand Canyon overflights

4. Dec 31, 1996

   Notice of proposed rulemaking for additional national parks

5. Jul 21, 1996

   Proposed regulations for Grand Canyon overflight noise limits

6. Jul 21, 1996

   Notice of proposed rulemaking for Rocky Mountain National Park overflights

Key directives

• Secretary of Transportation to issue proposed regulations within 90 days for Grand Canyon overflight noise limits
• Grand Canyon rulemaking action to be completed by end of 1996
• If management plan needed for Grand Canyon, complete within 5 years and ensure natural quiet restoration within 12 years of directive
• Complete and issue notice of proposed rulemaking for Rocky Mountain National Park within 90 days
• Issue notice of proposed rulemaking for additional parks by end of 1996
• Develop educational materials for public and aviation interests
• Secretary of Interior to develop comprehensive public transportation plan including pilot programs at Grand Canyon, Zion, and Yosemite

Who is ordered

• Secretary of Transportation · Department of Transportation
• Secretary of the Interior · Department of the Interior
• Heads of relevant departments and agencies · Multiple

Timeline

Risks & tensions

• Potential conflict between aviation industry interests and environmental/visitor experience goals
• Tension between air tour access for disabled communities and noise reduction mandates
• 12-year natural quiet restoration timeline may face implementation challenges given statutory complexity
• Coordination required between FAA regulatory authority and NPS management priorities