Comment from Alaska Travel Industry Association
Alaska Travel Industry AssociationSupportTrade association
Summary: The Alaska Travel Industry Association, representing 640 tourism-related businesses, supports the proposed rule to increase vehicle limits on Denali Park Road. They argue that the daily cap aligns with successful past management plans and helps balance expanded visitor access with the preservation of high-quality experiences.
The Alaska Travel Industry Association (ATIA), on behalf of our 640 member businesses, wishes to express our support for the proposed rule clarifying an increased vehicle limit for traffic on the Denali Park Road. ATIA is the statewide trade association for the tourism industry, representing a diverse membership of attractions, accommodations, transportation providers, tour operators, restaurants, and community organizations with over 60% of our member businesses having fewer than 20 employees.
The proposed policy aligns with existing limits the park has been using in the 2012 Vehicle Management Plan. A daily cap codifies a plan which has proven to be a successful model for flexibly expanding visitor access and capacity along the road corridor.
Tourism is an economic pillar for the state, generating $5.6 billion in total economic output annually and creating 48,000 jobs. Over 3 million people traveled to Alaska last year to enjoy scenic landscapes, wildlife viewing, Alaska Native culture, and outdoor adventures. Alaska’s visitor industry values our National Park System as a key attractant for many travelers to the state.
Given the statewide significance of Denali National Park in Alaska’s visitor infrastructure, ATIA appreciates the opportunity to support a policy which would thoughtfully manage and expand visitor access into the park while not compromising high quality visitor experiences.
Alaska Travel Industry Association