State park provides update on facilities

Hot Springs State Park has announced updates regarding the management agreements for the Star Plunge aquatic facility and Hot Springs Hotel.

Brooks Jordan, Big Horn District Manager, shares insights into the future plans and partnership developments between C and W Enterprises, Inc. (Star Plunge) and Big Spring Spa, Inc. (Hot Springs Hotel and Spa) and Hot Springs State Park.

“We highly value our longstanding partnership with both management companies and wish to extend our appreciation for their dedication to Hot Springs State Park and the community,” states Jordan.  “We are committed to the long-term viability of these facilities, and understand the important role they play in the local economy.”

The management agreement for the Star Plunge aquatic facility expires on December 31, 2024, while the Hot Springs Hotel and Spa has a management agreement that expires on October 31, 2026. As the current management agreements for both facilities approach their expiration dates, several key considerations are in motion.

Wyoming State Parks regulations mandate a request for proposals (RFP) process for concession contracts exceeding five (5) years in duration. Therefore, any long-term lease agreements for the Star Plunge or Hot Springs Hotel properties necessitate compliance with the RFP procedure.

“The ongoing RFP process for the development of a new hotel, aquatic facility, and convention space at Hot Springs State Park presents an opportunity for the potential continued management, operation, or significant redevelopment of the Star Plunge aquatic facility and Hot Springs Hotel,” explained Jordan.

Interested parties, including C and W Enterprises, Inc., and Big Spring Spa, Inc., are encouraged to submit proposals for the current RFP. The deadline for submissions is March 13, 2024. Upon completion of the RFP process and subsequent contract negotiations, Wyoming State Parks will communicate its decision regarding both management agreements’ renewal or expiration.

“According to the terms outlined in the existing management agreement for the Star Plunge, as well as all preceding agreements spanning over 50 years for the Star Plunge, the operator is obligated to return the premises to State Parks upon the agreements’ expiration or termination,” explains Jordan. “Additionally, it’s worth noting that in 2021, Star Plunge ownership had the chance to enter into a long-term lease agreement with us, but terms could not be agreed upon,” he added.

A comparable clause is also present within the Hot Springs Hotel and Spa management agreement.

“We appreciate C and W Enterprises, Inc.’s and Big Spring Spa, Inc.’s continued cooperation and contributions to Hot Springs State Park,” adds Jordan.

For further information or inquiries, please contact Brooks Jordan, Big Horn District Manager, at brooks.jordan@wyo.gov or 307-431-9921.