Bill to Seek Yosemite Repair Funds

Two California members of Congress will sponsor legislation to provide as much as $175 million in federal funds to repair and reopen flood-damaged Yosemite National Park.

Reps. John T. Doolittle (R-Rocklin) and George Radanovich (R-Mariposa) announced the bill after touring Yosemite Valley on Monday.

“Yosemite has been dealt a tremendous blow by this month’s flooding,” Doolittle said. “Yosemite is a special place, and we must do all we can to restore it for future generations to enjoy.”

On Thursday, Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt is expected to outline the amount of damage sustained by the park, which could exceed $100 million.

Doolittle’s bill, which is co-sponsored by Radanovich, seeks money to repair and reopen California 140 and California 120, the Tioga Pass Road.

The legislation, which is expected to be introduced as soon as Congress reconvenes next week, also seeks to help replace and relocate employee and concessionaire housing.

“Both John [Doolittle] and I have inspected the damage at Yosemite and understand the importance of doing whatever is necessary to restore Yosemite so that it is once again accessible to the public,” Radanovich said.

Although some parts of Yosemite reopened last week, park officials have said that most of the park will remain closed at least through February.