HOUSE BILL REPORT

                 SJM 8031

             As Reported By House Committee On:

                  Natural Resources & Parks

Title:  An act relating to the preservation of Sunrise Lodge.

Sponsors:  Senators Fraser, Deccio, Talmadge, Morton, McCaslin and Roach.

Brief History:

  Reported by House Committee on:

Natural Resources & Parks, February 25, 1994, DP.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS

Majority Report:  Do pass.  Signed by 11 members:  Representatives Pruitt, Chair; R. Johnson, Vice Chair; Stevens, Ranking Minority Member; McMorris, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Dunshee; Linville; Schoesler; Sheldon; B. Thomas; Valle and Wolfe.

Staff:  Linda Byers (786-7129).

Background:  The Sunrise Lodge in Mt. Rainier National Park was built in 1931 by a concessionaire and was later acquired by the National Park Service.  The lodge is a component of the Sunrise Historic District, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

In a draft environmental assessment/development concept plan for the Sunrise area, the National Park Service recommends dismantling the lodge. 

Summary of Bill:  The memorial asks the National Park Service to reconsider its decision to demolish Sunrise Lodge and instead to work with local and statewide interests to preserve the structure.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Testimony For:  Residents in this state with an interest in historic preservation asked for this memorial.  The lodge is lovely, and this may help preserve it.

Testimony Against:  None.

Witnesses:  Senator Karen Fraser, prime sponsor (pro).