Red Bus concerns

We are writing to express our alarm and concern regarding the proposed overhaul of 15 of 33 of the 2002 Ford red Glacier Park buses and the replacement of the other 18 with “new alternate fuel” vehicles.

What is the reasoning behind this proposal? Was a public comment period allotted? Was a written justification given and disseminated? These iconic buses were just retrofitted in 2002,

These historic and unique treasures are synonymous with Glacier National Park, a truly scenic site we have enjoyed in childhood visits and then later as employees of the concessionaire and the transport company. Three of our four sons have also been employed at the Park.

We would request that the National Park Service suspend the bidding deadline, release data to support this controversial decision and publicize and allow a reasonable amount of time for public comment. The Park Service should be able to provide compelling reasons for its proposed action.

Jimmy Nichols and

Betsey Tollefson Nichols 

St. Michael, Minn.