Growing apprehension surrounds the future of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Seattle, now identified as a potential target for federal budget reductions. A list released by Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA) reveals that the park’s lease with the Cadillac Hotel, located at 319 2nd Ave. S. in Pioneer Square, may be at risk as part of the General Services Administration’s initiative to eliminate over 2 million square feet of office space currently used by the Department of the Interior.
“The park is defined by its building; if the lease is terminated, the park effectively ceases to exist,” stated Rob Smith, the Seattle-based regional director for the National Parks Conservation Association. “Without that building, there is no park, and the entire visitor experience is lost. It simply doesn’t make sense.”
The National Parks Conservation Association, a nonprofit advocacy group, emphasizes the importance of protecting and preserving national parks, which are reportedly facing significant budget cuts. “Visitor numbers are on the rise—recent statistics show that national park attendance has reached an all-time high,” Smith noted. “This is not the time to eliminate popular destinations or reduce staffing for the rangers who serve the public. If we allow cuts to national parks, which represent America’s greatest achievement, what else might be at risk? We need to be vigilant.”
The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, which commemorates the gold rush of the 1890s, holds a unique position in Seattle, offering a visitor experience distinct from other national parks in Washington state. “It might be the first national park experience for many visitors, whether they are en route to a cruise ship or just have a free afternoon. It’s accessible by bus, car, or light rail, making it easy to visit. With real park rangers present, it serves as a gateway for discovering other national parks as well,” Smith explained.
Don Garwood from Tacoma expressed his desire to visit the park upon hearing news of its potential closure. “I found it very interesting and learned a lot I didn’t know before. We took a cruise to Alaska, and after returning, I intended to visit the park but kept putting it off,” he shared.
