A major restoration project is set to begin this fall at Petrified Forest National Park – aimed at preserving a landmark of mid-century modern architecture, and the work is backed by federal funding and years of planning.
The Painted Desert Community Complex — built in the 1960s and designed by famed architect Richard Neutra — serves as the northern visitor center and headquarters for the park. But over the years, shifting clay soil and aging infrastructure have taken a toll.
Now, thanks to nearly $37 million from the Great American Outdoors Act, the National Park Service is preparing for an 18-month restoration to address structural and accessibility issues.
Sarah Herve is chief of interpretation at the service.
“What it will ensure for the future is that this National Historic Landmark will get some much, much needed love and attention and be restored in a responsible manner for people coming for the next 50 to 100 years," she said.
Park officials said preserving the site's historic character is central to the effort. The goal is to update the facilities without compromising the building’s original design.
“Everything that we do needs to look like it belongs with the building," Herve said.
Visitor services have temporarily moved to the Painted Desert Inn as construction starts this September.
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