Montana State Parks (stateparks.mt.gov) is seeking public comment on an Environmental Assessment (EA) for a proposed Electrical and Lighting Improvement Project Phase II at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park near Whitehall, MT. Comments accepted through Saturday, March 17, 2018 at 5pm.
The proposed project would bring electrical and lighting systems within the caverns up to National Electrical Code Standards. The project includes the installation of improved lighting for the cave formations and LED lighted handrails to help visitors navigate the cave.
The original electrical and lighting system within Lewis & Clark Caverns was installed in approximately 1940 and much of the system needs to be upgraded to modern standards. A portion of the upgrade was completed in 2007, but funding limitations required that the project be broken into two phases. Phase II would complete the needed electrical and lighting upgrades.
The project would improve safety for visitors and park staff and reduce maintenance needs. The new system would be more efficient and have lower operating temperatures which would save energy costs while decreasing the impact on the cave environment. Another benefit would be the public’s ability to view the cavern formations with new lighting technology. The limestone formations within the caverns are some of the most unique of their type in the United States and new LED lighting would greatly enhance the colors of these features.
To view a full copy of the environmental assessment visit stateparks.mt.gov and click “Public Notices”.
The public comment period will be open for 21 days. The public is invited to comment online at stateparks.mt.gov and click “submit comments” or by email to rarmstrong@mt.gov.
The public may also send written comments by mail to: Lewis & Clark Caverns Electrical and Lighting Project, P.O. Box 489, Whitehall, MT 59759. Public comments must be received by Saturday, March 17, 2018 at 5pm.
For question about the draft EA and/or the public comment process, contact Rhea Armstrong, Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park Manager, at (406) 287-3541 or rarmstrong@mt.gov.
Visit Montana State Parks (stateparks.mt.gov) and enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, boating and more and discover some of the greatest natural and cultural treasures on earth.
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A division of Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
stateparks.mt.gov
Contact:
Pat Doyle
Marketing and Communications Manager,
Montana State Parks
(406) 444-3818
pdoyle@mt.gov
Betsy Kirkeby
Public Relations Specialist,
Montana State Parks
(406) 444-3343
bkirkeby@mt.gov
