News Release

Smooth Road Ahead: Skyline Drive receives $15 million makeover from the Great American Outdoors Act

A visitor enjoying views from Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park

NPS

News Release Date: April 30, 2024 The Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Legacy Restoration Fund is the driving force behind improvements to one of the National Park Service’s most iconic and popular roads. The $15 million, 18-month Skyline Drive preservation project repaired and restored 56 miles and 19 overlooks of the national historic landmark and national scenic byway that runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park. 

GAOA is also funding a $1.2 million park project to remove obsolete structures and restore native conditions in the Big Meadows area, a designated national historic landmark district, and Loft Mountain Campground. 

“Visitors travel to Shenandoah National Park to experience the natural and cultural landscapes,” said Superintendent Pat Kenney. “As a result of these projects, the park’s 1.5 million annual visitors will continue to encounter breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley and Virginia Piedmont from Skyline Drive and while exploring park facilities, will be immersed in the natural features they seek.” 

Motorists and bicyclists enjoying the springtime beauty of Shenandoah National Park’s vistas will benefit from a safer and smoother ride. The Skyline Drive project repaired distressed pavement, stabilized shoulders, enhanced pavement and road markings, and treated road surfaces to boost structural integrity and extend road life. 

The second GAOA-funded project removed deteriorating or unneeded structures and facilities in Big Meadows and Loft Mountain Campground, including office buildings, antiquated housing, a comfort station, parking area, picnic sites, and H-loop (road and campsites). Their demolition eliminates approximately $3 million of deferred maintenance in the park. The final stage of the project will restore natural vegetation in these areas. Visitors enjoying warm spring evenings at Big Meadows and Loft Mountain Campground will notice visual improvements and a more natural landscape. 

GAOA is part of a concerted effort to address extensive deferred maintenance and repair needs in national parks. Supported by revenue from energy development, GAOA provides the National Park Service with up to $1.3 billion per year for five years to make significant enhancements in national parks to ensure their preservation and provide opportunities for recreation, education, and enjoyment for current and future visitors.