National park expansions halted

MAY 10, 2001

The Department of Interior has halted expansions to the national park system in order to clear up the $4.9 billion backlog of repairs and maintenance at sites throughout the country.

The decision has angered some lawmakers, who have proposed studies to consider new national parks. Some also question President Bush's proposal to spend just $440 billion in fiscal year 2002 to attack the backlog, suggesting it will take more than five years to reduce it.

Bush has promised to spend $5 billion over five years to reduce the backlog.

He has made a similar promise to Indian schools, promising $1 billion over five years.

Get the Story:
New U.S. Park Expansions Banned (The Washington Post 4/10)

Relevant Links:
National Park System - http://www.nps.gov