A proposed bill in the Utah State Legislature aims to establish state parks in Big and Little Cottonwood canyons to address issues like lack of resources, police, and infrastructure in the overcrowded areas. Sen. Kathleen Riebe, the sponsor of Senate Bill 236, emphasized the need for improvements in these canyons due to their high visitorship and deteriorating infrastructure.
The bill proposes a joint operating agreement with the U.S. Forest Service, with involvement from Salt Lake County and the Utah Department of Transportation. While the bill is not aimed at blocking a controversial gondola project in Little Cottonwood Canyon, it seeks to utilize state resources for trail and other enhancements.
Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson’s office refrained from commenting on the bill, stating they would monitor its progress in the legislature. Senate Majority Leader Kirk Cullimore expressed interest in the initiative, indicating a potential positive reception from Senate Republican leaders.
Sen. Riebe clarified that the bill is intended to initiate a discussion about protecting the canyons, rather than ensuring immediate implementation in this legislative session. The proposed state parks could potentially lead to improvements in the canyons’ infrastructure and management, offering a solution to the issues caused by excessive visitor traffic in the area.
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