Deadline nears to comment on HSSP plan

The Wyoming Division of State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails is continuing to accept comments through June 6, on the Draft Master Plan for Hot Springs State Park.

The Master Plan is available for review and comment at Hot Springs State Park Headquarters, Hot Springs County Library, Fremont County Library in Riverton and on the project website at hotspringsmasterplan.com. 

Comments can be submitted until June 6, through the project website, on comment cards available at park headquarters and the libraries or by email to info@hotspringsmasterplan.com.

Hot Springs State Park is the most visited Wyoming State Park. The plan was initiated to help guide management and decision-making in response to several issues. These include a natural decline in the output of thermal water from the big spring; working with the 19 lease holders in the park, including concessionaires, and community and government entities; traffic flow and parking.

Director of the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources Milward Simpson said this is a really exciting master plan that needs public input.

“It is crucially important that the community feels like they have some input on the park,” he said. “In a sense, they are part owners of the park for helping to envision its future.”

Simpson said he would love to see great input from passionate community leaders and residents.

“The master plan for the state park plays a major role in the future of Hot Springs County, both economically and recreationally,” he said.

The plan includes provisions for investigating policy modifications to improve mineral water flow, as well as balancing the use of thermal water to ensure the viability of the natural geological feature of travertine terraces, as well as availability for soaking and therapeutic pools. 

Other elements of the plan include trail development to provide connections to downtown and natural areas along with improvements along the river’s edge.