Merkley, Wyden: $1.62 million headed to Smith Rock State Park for new welcome center, other improvements

WASHINGTON (KTVZ) -- Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced Tuesday that the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is receiving a Land and Water Conservation grant of $1,628,498 to help develop a new welcome center and make other improvements to boost the visitor experience at Smith Rock State Park.

The development of a new welcome center at Smith Rock State Park will include a new accessible restroom, outdoor plaza and gathering area, and accessibility improvements to the Rim Rock Trail extending in both directions from the welcome center. The existing parking area will also be reconfigured and expanded to accommodate larger vehicles and buses, with room for bus drop-off.

“Oregon’s public parks and lands are core to our quality of life and state’s economy, and it’s essential to make investments that keep these special places safe, up-to-date and accessible,” said Merkley, who funds the National Park Service as chair of the Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee. 

“This federal funding for Smith Rock State Park will help keep this jewel in Central Oregon’s High Desert beautiful and accessible for future generations of Oregonians and visitors alike,” Merkley added. 

Wyden said, “As one of our state’s seven wonders, Smith Rock State Park stands out as one of our state’s most beloved natural treasures and a hugely popular site for Oregonians and visitors alike. Getting outdoors is in Oregonians’ DNA, and these federal resources for this Central Oregon centerpiece will ensure it’s a welcome place to visit for years to come.”

Smith Rock State Park Manager Matt Davey said, “The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is honored that the National Park Service has recognized Smith Rock State Park for a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant.”"

"This investment is a clear commitment to support community access to the outdoors and preservation of one of Oregon’s most unique parks," Davey said. "The LWCF funding is critical to this project, and we are looking forward to improved quality and service for future visitors.”

The federal funding for the Smith Rock State Park’s Welcome Center and Visitor Improvement Project comes through the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund, which is critical to conserving thousands of acres of natural places and recreation opportunities across the country.