A ribbon cutting was recently held for four park model RVs (PMRV) donated to Rocky Mountain National Park as part of a pilot program to address the significant problem of providing safe and comfortable housing for National Park Service staff at a reasonable cost.
Gary Duncan, Forest River’s park model division general manager, and Jay Landers, the RV Industry Association’s VP of government affairs, spoke at the unveiling along with Rick May, the Department of Interior’s senior national advisor for recreation.
“These projects have addressed a significant maintenance backlog at the park and will reduce operation and maintenance costs in the future; two critical issues for the Secretary,” said May. “We are appreciative of the partners who are providing assistance to Rocky Mountain National Park to improve housing conditions for park staff who provide important services to park visitors.”
Forest River and RVIA each donated two PMRVs. Although the units for the pilot program were donated, if the program is a success, PMRVs may be purchased for use throughout the 417 national parks across the country.
“We are grateful for the generous donations from Forest River park model division, RVIA, and the Rocky Mountain Conservancy,” said Darla Sidles, Rocky Mountain National Park superintendent. “These organizations have contributed greatly to provide much-needed new housing units for park staff to rent. Additional housing is one of the park’s highest priorities, to help us better attract and retain the staff that are so critical to serving our visitors and protecting Rocky’s amazing resources.”
