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Mammoth Cave seeks comments on proposed trail upgrade

National Parks Disabled Visitors
Posted at 10:22 AM, Apr 06, 2021
and last updated 2021-04-06 10:22:19-04

CAVE CITY, Ky. (AP) — Mammoth Cave National Park is seeking public comment on a proposal to upgrade a popular cave route that features unique dripstone formations.

Plans call for using concrete for the entire trail surface along the Frozen Niagara Tour route, park spokeswoman Molly Schroer told the Bowling Green Daily News. The trail currently consists of a variety of materials including concrete, aggregate, dirt and recycled lumber, Schroer said. The project would also add an 18-inch high curb along the trail, upgrade steps and replace handrails.

The aim is to create a safer walking surface that adds protection to cave resources and requires less maintenance, Schroer said.

Park officials plan to inventory potential historic and archaeological resources and analyze how the project could impact them, she said.

The public is invited to provide comments about the project through May 26.