80 FR 24210 - Special Regulations, Areas of the National Park System, Bryce Canyon National Park, Bicycling

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
National Park Service

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 83 (April 30, 2015)

Page Range		24210-24213
FR Document		2015-10170
The National Park Service is planning to construct a paved, multi-use visitor path in Bryce Canyon National Park. The path will be approximately 6.2 miles long and be open to several uses, including running, walking, and bicycling. National Park Service regulations require promulgation of a special regulation to designate new routes for bicycle use off park roads and outside developed areas.
Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 83 (Thursday, April 30, 2015)
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 83 (Thursday, April 30, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 24210-24213]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2015-10170]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

National Park Service

36 CFR Part 7

[NPS-BRCA-17884; PA.PD191235A.00.3]
RIN 1024-AE23


Special Regulations, Areas of the National Park System, Bryce 
Canyon National Park, Bicycling

AGENCY: National Park Service, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The National Park Service is planning to construct a paved, 
multi-use visitor path in Bryce Canyon National Park. The path will be 
approximately 6.2 miles long and be open to several uses, including 
running, walking, and bicycling. National Park Service regulations 
require promulgation of a special regulation to designate new routes 
for bicycle use off park roads and outside developed areas.

DATES: This rule is effective June 1, 2015.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Daniel J. Cloud, Chief of Facility 
Management, Bryce Canyon National Park, P.O. Box 640201, Bryce Canyon, 
UT 84764-0201. Phone: (435) 834-4720. Email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Background

    Bryce Canyon National Park (BRCA or park) is in south-central Utah. 
The park encompasses approximately 35,835 acres and ranges between 
6,600 and 9,100 feet in elevation. BRCA was originally established as a 
national monument by presidential proclamation in 1923. The park was 
renamed Utah National Park in 1924, and the name was changed to Bryce 
Canyon National Park in 1928.
    The park's most noted feature is the eroded landscape below the 
east rim of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The erosional force of frost-
wedging and the dissolving power of rainwater have worn away the 
colorful and weak limestone rock into bizarre shapes, including slot 
canyons, windows, fins, and spires called ``hoodoos.'' Because the park 
transcends 2,500 feet of elevation, the park exists in three distinct 
climatic zones characterized by spruce/fir forest, ponderosa pine 
forest, and pinyon pine/juniper woodlands. The diversity of forest and 
meadow habitats provides a high degree of plant and animal diversity. 
BRCA is also one of the best places to experience a truly dark night 
sky.
    The park's purpose statement, which provides the foundation for 
park management, administration, and use decisions, states that ``Bryce 
Canyon National Park protects and conserves resources integral to a 
landscape of unusual scenic beauty exemplified by highly colored and 
fantastically eroded geological features, including rock fins and 
spires, for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.'' (May 2014 
Foundation Document). The park's Foundation Document identifies 
``increased use of alternative transportation (e.g., biking, hiking) 
within and surrounding the park'' as an opportunity to protect clean 
air--one of the fundamental resources of the park. The proposal to 
construct a multi-use path in the park will support the park's purpose 
statement by providing a new opportunity for safe enjoyment and 
protection of the fundamental resources in the park.

Purpose of the Multi-Use Path

    The primary purpose of the multi-use path is to relieve safety 
problems for visitors of all ages who choose to use non-motorized 
transportation to experience the park and adjacent United States Forest 
Service (USFS) areas near Bryce Canyon City. Increases in visitation of 
the park (30% increase between 2008 and 2012) are leading to 
transportation system capacity problems and traffic congestion. 
Cyclists and pedestrians need a way to travel to and within the park 
that is safer, provides a better visitor experience, and promotes non-
motorized travel between nearby communities and the park as well as 
between key destinations in the park.
    The path will enhance the park's transportation system by 
connecting the park's gateway communities with high visitor use areas 
along the canyon rim in the Bryce Amphitheater and with other key 
features of the park. The proposed path will also connect to the 
existing transportation system, including visitor shuttle buses, hiking 
trails and walking paths, parking lots, and roads. This will link major 
visitor attractions and facilities with both non-motorized and 
motorized transportation modes. Visitor safety will be improved

[[Page 24211]]

by separating motor vehicles from bicyclists, pedestrians, and other 
non-motorized user groups where possible.
    The multi-use path will consist of two contiguous sections 
constructed in two phases. The first segment will be approximately 3.9 
miles long. This segment will begin at the park boundary near the main 
park road to/from Bryce Canyon City. The path will roughly parallel the 
main park road and continue to the visitor center and North Campground 
area. The path will then run southeast toward the canyon rim, behind 
the General Store and Lodge area, and to the Sunset Point parking lot 
where it will turn back to parallel the main park road. The path will 
then leave the main park road and branch toward Inspiration Point 
parking area. The NPS intends to complete construction of the first 
segment by the fall 2015.
    The second segment will be approximately 2.3 miles long and will 
mostly follow Bryce Point road to a terminus at a trailhead just below 
the Bryce Point parking area. The NPS will construct the second segment 
as resources become available.
    In total, the path will be approximately 6.2 miles long within the 
boundary of the park. No portion of the proposed path will be 
constructed below the canyon rim on park lands, nor in proposed 
wilderness areas inside the park. For most locations, the path will 
consist of a 10-foot wide paved asphalt surface. The path will 
generally parallel the main park road to provide separation between 
users and vehicles to reduce the likelihood of related safety problems. 
Spurs from the main path alignment will be designed to provide visitor 
access to key viewpoints and other landscape features. The path will 
continue outside of the boundary of the park through Bryce Canyon City 
and Dixie National Forest. This will provide a safe, efficient, and 
family-friendly way to access these connected areas.

Environmental Assessment

    In September 2014, the NPS published the Multi-use Visitor Path 
Environmental Assessment (EA). On December 23, 2014, the Regional 
Director for the Intermountain Region signed a Finding of No 
Significant Impact (FONSI) that identified the preferred alternative 
(Alternative Alignment A) in the EA as the selected action. The rule 
implements the selected action as described in the EA and the FONSI. 
The EA and the FONSI, which contain a full description of the purpose 
and need for taking action, scoping, the alternatives considered, maps 
of the proposed multi-use path, and the environmental impacts 
associated with the project, may be viewed on the park's planning Web 
site at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/brca, by clicking on the link 
entitled ``Bryce Canyon National Park Multi-Use Path'' and then 
clicking on the link entitled ``Document List.''

Final Rule

    The rule complies with the requirement of 36 CFR 4.30, which 
requires a special regulation to designate new bicycle routes off park 
roads and outside of developed areas. The EA and FONSI address bicycle 
use on the multi-use path and evaluate (i) the suitability of the trail 
surface for bicycle use; and (ii) life cycle maintenance costs, safety 
considerations, methods to prevent or minimize user conflict, methods 
to protect natural and cultural resources and mitigate impacts, and 
integration with commercial services and alternative transportation 
systems in compliance with 36 CFR 4.30(d)(1)-(2).
    The rule adds a new section 7.94 to 36 CFR part 7--Special 
Regulations, Areas of the National Park Service for Bryce Canyon 
National Park. The rule authorizes the superintendent to designate all 
or a portion of two segments of the proposed 6.2-mile-long multi-use 
path as a route for bicycle use. The Superintendent will notify the 
public of any such designation through one or more of the methods 
outlined in 36 CFR 1.7, and place the designation on maps that are 
available in the office of the Superintendent and other places 
convenient to the public.
    The rule also authorizes the superintendent to establish closures 
or restrictions for bicycle use on designated routes after considering 
public health and safety, resource protection, and other management 
activities and objectives, provided public notice is given under 36 CFR 
1.7.

Summary of Public Comments

    We published the proposed rule at 79 FR 70137 (November 25, 2014). 
We accepted comments through the mail, hand delivery, and through the 
Federal eRulemaking Portal at http://www.regulations.gov. Comments were 
accepted through January 26, 2015, and we received eight timely 
comments. Seven comments supported the proposed rule and did not 
request any change. One comment opposed the proposed rule. A summary of 
this comment and the NPS response is provided below. After considering 
the public comments and after additional review, we did not make any 
changes in the final rule.
    Comment: One comment stated that mountain biking is harmful to 
wildlife, people, and the environment. Specifically, this comment 
raised concerns that mountain biking destroys habitat, accelerates 
erosion, kills animals and plants, and creates conflicts with wildlife 
and other park visitors, including hikers and equestrians.
    NPS Response: This rule allows the superintendent to authorize 
bicycle use on the paved, shared-use path, and not off-trail or on non-
paved, soft-surface trails. The multi-use path will not be a soft 
surface backcountry mountain bike path, and will not go below the 
canyon rim on park lands, or in proposed wilderness areas inside the 
park. The path will use a hardened surface to accommodate a wide range 
of non-motorized uses in the front country only. Potential impacts to 
park resources, including wildlife and habitat, soils, special status 
species and vegetation, as well as impacts to visitor use and 
experience were evaluated in the EA. Adverse impacts to these resources 
and visitor use were determined to be minor. The FONSI documented the 
finding that no significant impacts will occur, and concluded that 
bicycle use on the proposed path does not pose any significant impact 
that would rise to the levels that would constitute impairment.

Compliance With Other Laws, Executive Orders and Department Policy

Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)

    Executive Order 12866 provides that the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs in the Office of Management and Budget will review 
all significant rules. The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs 
has determined that this rule is not significant.
    Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the principles of Executive Order 
12866 while calling for improvements in the nation's regulatory system 
to promote predictability, to reduce uncertainty, and to use the best, 
most innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory 
ends. The executive order directs agencies to consider regulatory 
approaches that reduce burdens and maintain flexibility and freedom of 
choice for the public where these approaches are relevant, feasible, 
and consistent with regulatory objectives. Executive Order 13563 
emphasizes further that regulations must be based on the best available 
science and that the rulemaking process must allow for public 
participation and

[[Page 24212]]

an open exchange of ideas. We have developed this rule in a manner 
consistent with these requirements.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    This rule will not have a significant economic effect on a 
substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.). This certification is based on information 
contained in the economic analyses found in the report entitled ``Cost-
Benefit Analysis: Proposed Regulations to Designate New Routes for 
Bicycle Use in Bryce Canyon National Park'' which is available online 
at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/brca by clicking on the link entitled 
``Bryce Canyon National Park Multi-Use Path'' and then clicking on the 
link entitled ``Document List.''

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act

    This rule is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small 
Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. This rule:
    (a) Does not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million 
or more.
    (b) Will not cause a major increase in costs or prices for 
consumers, individual industries, Federal, State, or local government 
agencies, or geographic regions.
    (c) Does not have significant adverse effects on competition, 
employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of 
U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    This rule does not impose an unfunded mandate on State, local, or 
tribal governments or the private sector of more than $100 million per 
year. The rule does not have a significant or unique effect on State, 
local or tribal governments or the private sector. It addresses public 
use of national park lands, and imposes no requirements on other 
agencies or governments. A statement containing the information 
required by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) is 
not required.

Takings (Executive Order 12630)

    This rule does not affect a taking of private property or otherwise 
have takings implications under Executive Order 12630. A takings 
implication assessment is not required.

Federalism (Executive Order 13132)

    Under the criteria in section 1 of Executive Order 13132, the rule 
does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the 
preparation of a Federalism summary impact statement. This rule only 
affects use of NPS administered lands and waters. It has no outside 
effects on other areas. A Federalism summary impact statement is not 
required.

Civil Justice Reform (Executive Order 12988)

    This rule complies with the requirements of Executive Order 12988. 
Specifically, this rule:
    (a) Meets the criteria of section 3(a) requiring that all 
regulations be reviewed to eliminate errors and ambiguity and be 
written to minimize litigation; and
    (b) Meets the criteria of section 3(b)(2) requiring that all 
regulations be written in clear language and contain clear legal 
standards.

Consultation With Indian Tribes (Executive Order 13175 and Department 
Policy)

    The Department of the Interior strives to strengthen its 
government-to-government relationship with Indian Tribes through a 
commitment to consultation with Indian Tribes and recognition of their 
right to self-governance and tribal sovereignty. We have evaluated this 
rule under the Department's consultation policy and under the criteria 
in Executive Order 13175. During the environmental assessment process, 
we consulted with the 10 Native American groups associated with BRCA 
and determined that there are no substantial direct effects on 
federally recognized Indian tribes.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    This rule does not contain information collection requirements, and 
a submission to the Office of Management and Budget under the Paperwork 
Reduction Act is not required. We may not conduct or sponsor and you 
are not required to respond to a collection of information unless it 
displays a currently valid OMB control number.

National Environmental Policy Act

    This rule does not constitute a major Federal action significantly 
affecting the quality of the human environment. A detailed statement 
under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 is not required 
because we reached the FONSI. A copy of the EA and FONSI can be found 
online at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/brca by clicking on the link 
entitled ``Bryce Canyon National Park Multi-Use Path'' and then 
clicking on the link entitled ``Document List.''

Effects on the Energy Supply (Executive Order 13211)

    This rule is not a significant energy action under the definition 
in Executive Order 13211. A Statement of Energy Effects in not 
required.
    Drafting Information: The primary author of this regulation is Jay 
P. Calhoun, Regulations Program Specialist, National Park Service.

List of Subjects in 36 CFR Part 7

    National parks, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    In consideration of the foregoing, the National Park Service amends 
36 CFR part 7 as set forth below:

PART 7--SPECIAL REGULATIONS, AREAS OF THE NATIONAL PARK SYSTEM

0
1. The authority citation for Part 7 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  16 U.S.C. 1, 3, 9a, 462(k); Sec. 7.96 also issued 
under 36 U.S.C. 501-511, D.C. Code 10-137 (2001) and D.C. Code 50-
2201.07 (2001).


0
2. Add Sec.  7.94 to read as follows:


Sec.  7.94  Bryce Canyon National Park.

    (a) The Superintendent may designate for bicycle use routes or 
portions of routes on the following sections of the park's multi-use 
recreational path:
    (1) A section between the park boundary near Bryce Canyon City and 
Inspiration Point parking area (approximately 3.9 miles);
    (2) A section between the intersection of Bryce Point road and 
Inspiration Point road, and a trailhead near Bryce Point parking area 
(approximately 2.3 miles).
    (b) The Superintendent will provide notice of all bicycle route 
designations through one or more of the methods listed in Sec.  1.7 of 
this chapter, and place the designations on maps that are available in 
the office of the Superintendent and other places convenient to the 
public.
    (c) The Superintendent may open or close designated bicycle routes, 
or portions thereof, or establish conditions or restrictions for 
bicycle use after considering public health and safety, natural and 
cultural resource protection, carrying capacity, and other management 
activities and objectives.
    (1) The Superintendent will provide public notice of all such 
actions through one or more of the methods listed in Sec.  1.7 of this 
chapter.
    (2) Violating a closure, condition, or restriction is prohibited.


[[Page 24213]]


    Dated: April 17, 2015.
Michael Bean,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 2015-10170 Filed 4-29-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4310-EJ-P
24210 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 83 / Thursday, April 30, 2015 / Rules and Regulations

any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 202–741–6030, or go to: http:// including slot canyons, windows, fins,
principal inspector, or lacking a principal www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- and spires called ‘‘hoodoos.’’ Because
inspector, the manager of the local flight locations.html. the park transcends 2,500 feet of
standards district office/certificate holding elevation, the park exists in three
Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 17,
district office. The AMOC approval letter
must specifically reference this AD.
2015. distinct climatic zones characterized by
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any Victor Wicklund, spruce/fir forest, ponderosa pine forest,
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective Acting Manager, Transport Airplane and pinyon pine/juniper woodlands.
actions from a manufacturer, the action must Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. The diversity of forest and meadow
be accomplished using a method approved [FR Doc. 2015–09811 Filed 4–29–15; 8:45 am] habitats provides a high degree of plant
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– BILLING CODE 4910–13–P and animal diversity. BRCA is also one
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or of the best places to experience a truly
the EASA; or Airbus’s EASA DOA. If dark night sky.
approved by the DOA, the approval must The park’s purpose statement, which
include the DOA-authorized signature. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR provides the foundation for park
(3) Required for Compliance: Except as management, administration, and use
required by paragraph (i) of this AD: If any National Park Service
service information contains procedures or
decisions, states that ‘‘Bryce Canyon
tests that are identified as RC, those 36 CFR Part 7 National Park protects and conserves
procedures and tests must be done to comply resources integral to a landscape of
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are [NPS–BRCA–17884; PA.PD191235A.00.3] unusual scenic beauty exemplified by
not identified as RC are recommended. Those RIN 1024–AE23
highly colored and fantastically eroded
procedures and tests that are not identified geological features, including rock fins
as RC may be deviated from using accepted Special Regulations, Areas of the and spires, for the benefit and
methods in accordance with the operator’s enjoyment of the people.’’ (May 2014
maintenance or inspection program without
National Park System, Bryce Canyon
National Park, Bicycling Foundation Document). The park’s
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided Foundation Document identifies
the procedures and tests identified as RC can AGENCY: National Park Service, Interior.
be done and the airplane can be put back in
‘‘increased use of alternative
a serviceable condition. Any substitutions or ACTION: Final rule. transportation (e.g., biking, hiking)
changes to procedures or tests identified as within and surrounding the park’’ as an
RC require approval of an AMOC. SUMMARY: The National Park Service is opportunity to protect clean air—one of
planning to construct a paved, multi-use the fundamental resources of the park.
(n) Related Information visitor path in Bryce Canyon National The proposal to construct a multi-use
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Park. The path will be approximately path in the park will support the park’s
Airworthiness Information EASA 6.2 miles long and be open to several purpose statement by providing a new
Airworthiness Directive 2014–0064, dated uses, including running, walking, and opportunity for safe enjoyment and
March 14, 2014, for related information. This bicycling. National Park Service
MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the
protection of the fundamental resources
Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/
regulations require promulgation of a in the park.
#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0589-0003. special regulation to designate new
routes for bicycle use off park roads and Purpose of the Multi-Use Path
(2) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is outside developed areas. The primary purpose of the multi-use
available at the addresses specified in DATES: This rule is effective June 1, path is to relieve safety problems for
paragraphs (o)(3) and (o)(4) of this AD. 2015. visitors of all ages who choose to use
non-motorized transportation to
(o) Material Incorporated by Reference FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: experience the park and adjacent United
(1) The Director of the Federal Register Daniel J. Cloud, Chief of Facility States Forest Service (USFS) areas near
approved the incorporation by reference Management, Bryce Canyon National Bryce Canyon City. Increases in
(IBR) of the service information listed in this Park, P.O. Box 640201, Bryce Canyon,
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR visitation of the park (30% increase
UT 84764–0201. Phone: (435) 834–4720. between 2008 and 2012) are leading to
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
Email: daniel_cloud@nps.gov. transportation system capacity problems
as applicable to do the actions required by SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: and traffic congestion. Cyclists and
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. pedestrians need a way to travel to and
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–54–1019, Background
within the park that is safer, provides a
Revision 02, dated April 15, 2014. Bryce Canyon National Park (BRCA or better visitor experience, and promotes
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–54–1022, park) is in south-central Utah. The park non-motorized travel between nearby
Revision 03, dated April 15, 2014. encompasses approximately 35,835 communities and the park as well as
(3) For service information identified in
acres and ranges between 6,600 and between key destinations in the park.
this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness
Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice 9,100 feet in elevation. BRCA was The path will enhance the park’s
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; originally established as a national transportation system by connecting the
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 monument by presidential proclamation park’s gateway communities with high
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ in 1923. The park was renamed Utah visitor use areas along the canyon rim
airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com. National Park in 1924, and the name in the Bryce Amphitheater and with
(4) You may view this service information was changed to Bryce Canyon National other key features of the park. The
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, Park in 1928. proposed path will also connect to the
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For The park’s most noted feature is the existing transportation system,
rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES

information on the availability of this eroded landscape below the east rim of including visitor shuttle buses, hiking
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
(5) You may view this service information
the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The erosional trails and walking paths, parking lots,
that is incorporated by reference at the force of frost-wedging and the and roads. This will link major visitor
National Archives and Records dissolving power of rainwater have attractions and facilities with both non-
Administration (NARA). For information on worn away the colorful and weak motorized and motorized transportation
the availability of this material at NARA, call limestone rock into bizarre shapes, modes. Visitor safety will be improved

VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:33 Apr 29, 2015 Jkt 235001 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\30APR1.SGM 30APR1
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 83 / Thursday, April 30, 2015 / Rules and Regulations 24211

by separating motor vehicles from and the environmental impacts Comment: One comment stated that
bicyclists, pedestrians, and other non- associated with the project, may be mountain biking is harmful to wildlife,
motorized user groups where possible. viewed on the park’s planning Web site people, and the environment.
The multi-use path will consist of two at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/brca, by Specifically, this comment raised
contiguous sections constructed in two clicking on the link entitled ‘‘Bryce concerns that mountain biking destroys
phases. The first segment will be Canyon National Park Multi-Use Path’’ habitat, accelerates erosion, kills
approximately 3.9 miles long. This and then clicking on the link entitled animals and plants, and creates conflicts
segment will begin at the park boundary ‘‘Document List.’’ with wildlife and other park visitors,
near the main park road to/from Bryce including hikers and equestrians.
Canyon City. The path will roughly Final Rule
NPS Response: This rule allows the
parallel the main park road and The rule complies with the superintendent to authorize bicycle use
continue to the visitor center and North requirement of 36 CFR 4.30, which on the paved, shared-use path, and not
Campground area. The path will then requires a special regulation to off-trail or on non-paved, soft-surface
run southeast toward the canyon rim, designate new bicycle routes off park trails. The multi-use path will not be a
behind the General Store and Lodge roads and outside of developed areas. soft surface backcountry mountain bike
area, and to the Sunset Point parking lot The EA and FONSI address bicycle use path, and will not go below the canyon
where it will turn back to parallel the on the multi-use path and evaluate (i) rim on park lands, or in proposed
main park road. The path will then the suitability of the trail surface for wilderness areas inside the park. The
leave the main park road and branch bicycle use; and (ii) life cycle path will use a hardened surface to
toward Inspiration Point parking area. maintenance costs, safety accommodate a wide range of non-
The NPS intends to complete considerations, methods to prevent or motorized uses in the front country
construction of the first segment by the minimize user conflict, methods to only. Potential impacts to park
fall 2015. protect natural and cultural resources resources, including wildlife and
The second segment will be and mitigate impacts, and integration habitat, soils, special status species and
approximately 2.3 miles long and will with commercial services and vegetation, as well as impacts to visitor
mostly follow Bryce Point road to a alternative transportation systems in use and experience were evaluated in
terminus at a trailhead just below the compliance with 36 CFR 4.30(d)(1)–(2). the EA. Adverse impacts to these
Bryce Point parking area. The NPS will The rule adds a new section 7.94 to
resources and visitor use were
construct the second segment as 36 CFR part 7—Special Regulations,
determined to be minor. The FONSI
resources become available. Areas of the National Park Service for
documented the finding that no
In total, the path will be Bryce Canyon National Park. The rule
significant impacts will occur, and
approximately 6.2 miles long within the authorizes the superintendent to
concluded that bicycle use on the
boundary of the park. No portion of the designate all or a portion of two
proposed path does not pose any
proposed path will be constructed segments of the proposed 6.2-mile-long
significant impact that would rise to the
below the canyon rim on park lands, nor multi-use path as a route for bicycle use.
levels that would constitute
in proposed wilderness areas inside the The Superintendent will notify the
impairment.
park. For most locations, the path will public of any such designation through
consist of a 10-foot wide paved asphalt one or more of the methods outlined in Compliance With Other Laws,
surface. The path will generally parallel 36 CFR 1.7, and place the designation Executive Orders and Department
the main park road to provide on maps that are available in the office Policy
separation between users and vehicles of the Superintendent and other places Regulatory Planning and Review
to reduce the likelihood of related safety convenient to the public. (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)
problems. Spurs from the main path The rule also authorizes the
alignment will be designed to provide superintendent to establish closures or Executive Order 12866 provides that
visitor access to key viewpoints and restrictions for bicycle use on the Office of Information and Regulatory
other landscape features. The path will designated routes after considering Affairs in the Office of Management and
continue outside of the boundary of the public health and safety, resource Budget will review all significant rules.
park through Bryce Canyon City and protection, and other management The Office of Information and
Dixie National Forest. This will provide activities and objectives, provided Regulatory Affairs has determined that
a safe, efficient, and family-friendly way public notice is given under 36 CFR 1.7. this rule is not significant.
to access these connected areas. Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the
Summary of Public Comments principles of Executive Order 12866
Environmental Assessment We published the proposed rule at 79 while calling for improvements in the
In September 2014, the NPS FR 70137 (November 25, 2014). We nation’s regulatory system to promote
published the Multi-use Visitor Path accepted comments through the mail, predictability, to reduce uncertainty,
Environmental Assessment (EA). On hand delivery, and through the Federal and to use the best, most innovative,
December 23, 2014, the Regional eRulemaking Portal at http:// and least burdensome tools for
Director for the Intermountain Region www.regulations.gov. Comments were achieving regulatory ends. The
signed a Finding of No Significant accepted through January 26, 2015, and executive order directs agencies to
Impact (FONSI) that identified the we received eight timely comments. consider regulatory approaches that
preferred alternative (Alternative Seven comments supported the reduce burdens and maintain flexibility
Alignment A) in the EA as the selected proposed rule and did not request any and freedom of choice for the public
action. The rule implements the change. One comment opposed the where these approaches are relevant,
rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES

selected action as described in the EA proposed rule. A summary of this feasible, and consistent with regulatory
and the FONSI. The EA and the FONSI, comment and the NPS response is objectives. Executive Order 13563
which contain a full description of the provided below. After considering the emphasizes further that regulations
purpose and need for taking action, public comments and after additional must be based on the best available
scoping, the alternatives considered, review, we did not make any changes in science and that the rulemaking process
maps of the proposed multi-use path, the final rule. must allow for public participation and

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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 83 / Thursday, April 30, 2015 / Rules and Regulations 24213

Dated: April 17, 2015. Information (CBI) or other information I. Background
Michael Bean, the disclosure of which is restricted by
A. CAA and SIPs
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish statute. Do not submit information
and Wildlife and Parks. through http://www.regulations.gov or Section 110 of the CAA requires states
[FR Doc. 2015–10170 Filed 4–29–15; 8:45 am] email, if you believe that it is CBI or to develop and submit to the EPA a SIP
BILLING CODE 4310–EJ–P otherwise protected from disclosure. to ensure that state air quality meets
The http://www.regulations.gov Web National Ambient Air Quality Standards
site is an ‘‘anonymous access’’ system, (NAAQS). The NAAQS currently
which means that the EPA will not address six criteria pollutants: Carbon
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
know your identity or contact monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone,
AGENCY
information unless you provide it in the lead, particulate matter, and sulfur
40 CFR Parts 52 body of your comment. If you send an dioxide. Each federally-approved SIP
email comment directly to the EPA protects air quality primarily by
[EPA–R06–OAR–2014–0846; FRL–9927–10– addressing air pollution at its point of
without going through http://
Region 6] origin through air pollution regulations
www.regulations.gov, your email
address will be automatically captured and control strategies. The EPA-
Approval and Promulgation of
and included as part of the comment approved SIP provisions and control
Implementation Plans; Texas;
that is placed in the public docket and strategies are federally enforceable.
Revisions to the State Implementation
made available on the Internet. If you States revise the SIP as needed and
Plan; Stage I Regulations
submit an electronic comment, the EPA submit revisions to the EPA for review
AGENCY: Environmental Protection recommends that you include your and approval.
Agency (EPA). name and other contact information in B. Why do we regulate VOCs?
ACTION: Direct final rule. the body of your comment along with
any disk or CD–ROM submitted. If the Volatile Organic Compound is a term
SUMMARY: The Environmental Protection EPA cannot read your comment due to used to describe a class of chemicals
Agency (EPA) is taking a direct final technical difficulties and cannot contact that react in the atmosphere in the
action to approve revisions to the Texas you for clarification, the EPA may not presence of sunlight to form ozone.
State Implementation Plan (SIP) related be able to consider your comment. Sources include vehicle exhaust,
to Stage I Regulations that were Electronic files should avoid the use of gasoline vapors, oil-based paints and
submitted by the State of Texas on special characters and any form of industrial operations. A regulatory
November 12, 2014. The EPA evaluated encryption and should be free of any definition of Volatile Organic
the SIP submittal from Texas and defects or viruses. For additional Compounds can be found at 40 CFR
determined these revisions are information about the EPA’s public 51.100(s). The definition in Texas can
consistent with the requirements of the docket, visit the EPA Docket Center be found in 30 TAC 115.10. Oxygen in
Clean Air Act (Act or CAA). The EPA homepage at http://www.epa.gov/ the atmosphere reacts with VOCs and
is approving this action under the epahome/dockets.htm. Oxides of Nitrogen to form ozone, a key
federal CAA. Docket: The index to the docket for component of urban smog. Inhaling
DATES: This direct final rule is effective this action is available electronically at even low levels of ozone can trigger a
on June 29, 2015 without further notice, www.regulations.gov and in hard copy variety of health problems including
unless the EPA receives relevant at EPA Region 6, 1445 Ross Avenue, chest pains, coughing, nausea, throat
adverse comment by June 1, 2015. If the Suite 700, Dallas, Texas. While all irritation, and congestion. It also can
EPA receives such comment, the EPA documents in the docket are listed in worsen bronchitis and asthma. Exposure
will publish a timely withdrawal in the the index, some information may be to ozone can also reduce lung capacity
Federal Register informing the public publicly available only at the hard copy in healthy adults.
that this rule will not take effect. location (e.g., copyrighted material), and C. What is Stage I Vapor Recovery?
ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, some may not be publicly available at
Capturing the vapors from the
identified by Docket ID No. EPA–R06– either location (e.g., CBI).
gasoline station storage tanks as tank-
OAR–2014–0846, by one of the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: trucks fill these tanks, and returning the
following methods: Ms. Tracie Donaldson, (214) 665–6633, vapors to the tank-truck is commonly
(1) www.regulations.gov: Follow the donaldson.tracie@epa.gov. To inspect known as Stage I vapor recovery. The
on-line instructions. the hard copy materials, please schedule tank-truck then carries the vapors back
(2) Email: Ms. Tracie Donaldson at an appointment with Ms. Donaldson or to the bulk gasoline plant or terminal.
donaldson.tracie@epa.gov. Mr. Bill Deese at (214) 665–7253. To insure the vapors are not lost in
(3) Mail or Delivery: Ms. Tracie SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: transit, the Texas rules also include
Donaldson, Air Permits Section (6PD– Throughout this document wherever requirements that the gasoline tank-
R), Environmental Protection Agency, ‘‘we,’’ ‘‘us,’’ or ‘‘our’’ is used, we mean trucks be tested for vapor tightness. We
1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200, Dallas, the EPA. are approving the vapor recovery
Texas 75202–2733. requirements and the vapor tightness
Table of Contents
Instructions: Direct your comments to requirements.
Docket ID No. EPA–R06–OAR–2014– I. Background
0846. EPA’s policy is that all comments A. CAA and SIPs D. SIP Revision Submitted on November
received will be included in the public B. Why do we regulate VOCs? 12, 2014
rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with RULES

docket without change and may be C. What is Stage I Vapor Recovery? On September 10, 2014, Texas
D. SIP Revision Submitted on November
made available online at http:// 12, 2014
Commission on Environmental Quality
www.regulations.gov, including any II. EPA’s Evaluation (TCEQ) adopted revisions to 30 Texas
personal information provided, unless III. Final Action Administrative Code (TAC) Chapter
the comment includes information IV. Incorporation by Reference 115, Control of Air Pollution from
claimed to be Confidential Business V. Statutory and Executive Order Reviews Volatile Organic Compounds,

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Document Created: 2018-02-21 10:14:43
Document Modified: 2018-02-21 10:14:43
Category		Regulatory Information
Collection		Federal Register
sudoc Class		AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106:
Publisher		Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
Section		Rules and Regulations
Action		Final rule.
Dates		This rule is effective June 1, 2015.
Contact		Daniel J. Cloud, Chief of Facility Management, Bryce Canyon National Park, P.O. Box 640201, Bryce Canyon, UT 84764-0201. Phone: (435) 834-4720. Email: [email protected]
FR Citation		80 FR 24210
RIN Number		1024-AE23
CFR Associated		National Parks and Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements
80 FR 24210 - Special Regulations, Areas of the National Park System, Bryce Canyon National Park, Bicycling

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIORNational Park Service

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 83 (April 30, 2015)

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
National Park Service
