Yosemite National Park, CA…..The Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite National Park will shut down for three weeks to allow uninterrupted work on a multitude of renovation projects. From February 22 through March 17, 2011, the extensive work will be conducted to upgrade the fire detection, alarm, and suppression system throughout the historic hotel. This work includes guest rooms, restaurants, shops, and public spaces at the hotel. Additionally, the parking lot will be closed and the closest public parking will be available at Church Bowl…..

Other work slated to be accomplished includes stabilization of the kitchen floor, replacement of the entry boardwalks, replacement of the service yard fence, and upgrades and replacements of furnishings throughout the hotel. This includes new carpets, drapes, and bedspreads in many of the rooms, painting of guest rooms and public areas, and renovation of many of the artifacts in the hotel.

Work on the Ahwahnee has been occurring since September 2010. However, the planned shutdown is needed to complete the remainder of the work.

The Ahwahnee Hotel, completed in 1927, is a registered National Historic Landmark. It was commissioned by Stephen T. Mather, the first Director of the National Park Service. Mather felt that a grand hotel in Yosemite National Park was necessary to host dignitaries and influential people that would support Yosemite and other national parks throughout the country. The Ahwahnee Hotel is widely regarded as the crown jewel of national park lodges.

The Ahwahnee will reopen to the public on March 17, 2011, including restaurants, shops, public spaces, and most guest rooms. The work will be conducted by the staff of Yosemite National Park, DNC Parks and Resorts at Yosemite, Inc., and contractors. The project is being funded by the National Park Service and DNC Parks and Resorts at Yosemite, Inc.