WASHINGTON, D.C. — In an effort to boost tourism to the Willcox area, U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani, R-Ariz., introduced the Chirichahua National Park Act (H.R. 1479), with companion legislation introduced by Senators Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., and Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz.
The bill would change the designation of the Chiricahua National Monument to Chiricahua National Park, making it the fourth national park in Arizona, along with the Grand Canyon, the Petrified Forest and Tumacacori.
On Sept. 18, Ciscomani recently testified on the bill before the Subcommittee on Federal Lands of the House Committee on Natural Resources.
“Aside from being a favorite spot for hikers, avid birders and campers, Chiricahua National Monument is a key driver of economic activity in Willcox, Ariz.,” Ciscomani said.
Willcox Mayor Mike Laws and Willcox Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture president Monica Preston also testified before the subcommittee.
Despite Chiricahua National Monument having 25 campsites and 17 miles of hiking trails, local officials said that tourists are less likely to visit a national monument than a national park, thus the requested change of designation. Ciscomani said the change will not impact land use and it will not cost any tax dollars.
The bill now awaits action by the Committee on Natural Resources before it can move to a vote by the full House.
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