The park’s older system has reportedly struggled with limited capacity and ageing components.
The existing facility, the largest of its kind in the National Park Service (NPS), serves Yosemite Valley, El Portal, and nearby communities, supporting over four million annual visitors, 700 residents, and park staff. The new plant, located at the current site, will process up to one million gallons of wastewater daily using advanced technologies and improved automation controls to enhance efficiency and reliability.
The NPS noted that the outdated system faces challenges with limited capacity and aging components, increasing risks of environmental harm and costly repairs. The new facility will address approximately $156 million in deferred maintenance, meet modern regulatory standards, and reduce future maintenance costs. Outdated structures will be demolished, and the former El Portal administrative camp will be refurbished to house construction crews, minimizing environmental impact.
The project, managed by the NPS Denver Service Center using a design-bid-build approach, involves collaboration with Yosemite National Park and Pacific West Region staff. Construction will occur within the existing fenced compound, maintaining access for personnel and vehicles. The facility is expected to be operational by 2029, ensuring reliable service for the next 50 years.
Yosemite National Park acting superintendent Ray McPadden emphasized the project’s importance, stating: “This project is essential to the continued protection of public health and the environment, and also to the future of visitor services and park operations in Yosemite.” He added: “Upgrading this facility allows us to better safeguard the Wild and Scenic Merced River, serve our community and guests, support park concession operations, and ensure the park remains resilient for the next 50 years.”
The El Portal Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade supports the park’s commitment to sustainable operations, ensuring reliable wastewater management for domestic and visitor use while protecting the local ecosystem. This investment enhances Yosemite’s infrastructure, supporting its role as a major destination and preserving its natural resources for future generations.
