On Friday, Representative Eli Crane (R-AZ) introduced the North Rim Restoration Act of 2025. The bill aims to speed up the rebuilding process for the North Rim of the Grand Canyon by streamlining federal contracting procedures. The legislation is currently cosponsored by Representatives Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Paul Gosar (R-AZ), Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), Celeste Maloy (R-UT), and Tom Tiffany (R-WI). The Coconino County Board of Supervisors has also expressed support for the bill.
The proposed legislation would grant emergency contracting authority to the National Park Service (NPS). This would allow the NPS to bypass some standard delays and move more quickly with recovery efforts. According to Rep. Crane’s office, these efforts include forest management, maintenance, rebuilding, and infrastructure improvements related to fire damage. The act would also require that the NPS submit a comprehensive report to Congress every 180 days detailing progress on recovery activities.
The Dragon Bravo Fire, which began on July 4 due to lightning, grew to about 145,000 acres and became Arizona’s seventh-largest wildfire. The fire caused severe damage or destruction to 106 buildings, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge. About 1,000 feet of a critical water pipeline was also damaged before officials declared full containment on September 29.
Parts of the North Rim remain closed as repairs continue. Rep. Crane commented on the situation: “While the Dragon Bravo Fire dealt a setback for Northern Arizona, we won’t let this tragedy define our future. We have an opportunity to rebuild stronger and better than before, and we can’t let unnecessary regulations get in the way,” said Rep. Crane. “This legislation paves the way for an efficient recovery, and I’m grateful for the bipartisan support on this approach. I also want to thank our heroic firefighters and first responders who brought the fire to full containment, as well as the local leaders in Coconino County who are committed to restoring this treasured place.”
The Coconino County Board of Supervisors released a statement in support: “Coconino County supports the North Rim Restoration Act, which gives the National Park Service the ability to respond swiftly and thoughtfully, not only to rebuild the physical structures but to restore the enduring spirit of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. We are deeply grateful to Representative Crane for championing this legislation and recognizing the devastation caused by the Dragon Bravo Fire and the heartbreaking loss for everyone who treasures this extraordinary place.”
Rep. Eli Crane has represented Arizona’s 2nd district in Congress since 2023 after succeeding Tom O’Halleran. He was born in Tucson in 1980 and currently resides in Oro Valley.
