Legislation Proposed to Accelerate Repairs at Grand Canyon’s Fire-Damaged North Rim
Efforts to rebuild the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, which recently suffered extensive damage due to the Dragon Bravo Fire, are gaining momentum as three Arizona congressmen introduce new legislation. Representatives Eli Crane, Andy Biggs, and Paul Gosar, all Republicans, have proposed a bill designed to expedite the reconstruction process.
The proposed legislation seeks to grant the National Park Service emergency contracting powers, thereby simplifying the federal contracting procedures. Despite this change, the agency will still be required to submit biannual reports to Congress to ensure accountability and transparency.
The fire not only ravaged the North Rim’s infrastructure but also destroyed the historic Grand Canyon Lodge, a significant loss for the area. In light of the destruction, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors has already expressed its support for the proposed bill, signaling local backing for swift action.
Despite the urgency of the situation, the timing for a vote on the legislation remains uncertain. The uncertainty is compounded by the ongoing government shutdown, which has now entered its tenth day with no resolution in sight.
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