While the road circulation system was considered adequate, road widths and curvature would be improved to handle anticipated visitation levels. Rim Road in the vicinity of Kerr Notch would be relocated. To disperse the use-load one or more fire control roads that reached important natural features would be improved and opened to public travel. Trails would be restored, and increased parking would be developed at view points and interpretive sites. A new trail from the Rim Road to the lake would be constructed in a location that would obviate hand clearing of snow and have a minimum of switchbacks for visitor safety and maintenance efficiency.
Chief among the interpretive facilities that would be built was a Visitor Center. Wayside exhibits, signs, and markers would be placed on all major roads and trails to interpret significant features and themes. The system of self-guiding trails would be expanded and improved, and the Rim Road would become a self-guided tour through the use of exhibits and markers. Research efforts would be expanded, particularly in limnology, geology, botany, zoology, and archeology. A covered walkway would be constructed to the Sinnott Memorial and the building improved for winter use.
Existing camping and picnicking facilities would be expanded and improved. Increased space for trailer camping would be provided, and a new campground at low elevation would be constructed to accommodate early summer and late fall visitors. Picnic sites would be developed at various locations around the rim to satisfy a long-felt need and serve to distribute use.
Park facilities would be improved, including enlargement of water and sanitation systems and replacement of the telephone system. Storage and maintenance buildings, employee housing, and other structures for park operations would be designed and constructed for year-round use. A total of 31 permanent residences at park headquarters and one at Annie Spring were to be constructed to replace the existing substandard employee housing. A dual-purpose building to house an elementary grade school and employee recreation center would be built near the residential area. A leased radio system would be installed, connecting vehicles and outlying stations, including fire lookouts, with park headquarters. Boat storage and service facilities would be built on the lake shore at the foot of the new lake trail, and boats would be launched and retrieved by marine railway, thus permitting removal of the unsightly boat developments on Wizard Island.
The Mission 66 program proposed increases in park staffing to 37 permanent positions and annual operating appropriations commensurate with expanded activities and responsibilities. Increased efficiency in operations, however, would be effected by supplying modern tools, equipment, and facilities to obviate increases in proportion to the anticipated increase in public use. It was estimated that 70 percent more visitors could be served more efficiently by increasing present annual appropriations only 20 percent.
