Chiricahua National Monument southeast of Willcox would be redesignated as Chiricahua National Park under legislation introduced Tuesday by U.S. Rep. Martha McSally.
The monument, a preserve of 11,985 acres, is known for its spectacular rock formations, scenic overlooks and trails. The redesignation would bring no significant changes other than a name change, according to park officials.
“Having had the opportunity to hike Chiricahua and even fly over it in an A-10 many times during training, I know first-hand what a national treasure it is,” said McSally, a Republican and former Air Force pilot who represents Congressional District 2. “Redesignating this area as a national park would boost tourism, grow our economy, and add more jobs in Southern Arizona.”
McSally said in a news release that a campaign to earn national park status has been “a true grassroots effort that began from the ground up, and I’m grateful to the many local officials who helped build support for it, in particular Bob Gent at the Sierra Vista Tourism Commission for his vision and dedicated advocacy.”
Gent has described the monument as “a geologic wonder of the world” that is worthy of national park status.
McSally said that “during (this year’s) 100th anniversary of the National Park Service, I can think of no better way to recognize Chiricahua’s unique, historic landscapes, and I’ll continue to work to pass this legislation into law.”
