MOOSE, Wyo. — A multi-year initiative between Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) and Grand Teton National Park Foundation to preserve and enhance the Mormon Row Historic District is making progress.

According to a recent blog post by the GTNP Foundation, two important steps are being completed this summer: the public comment period for proposed visitor improvements, and restoration work at the Roy Chambers Homestead.

Photo courtesy of Grand Teton National Park

The monthlong public comment period for this project has closed. The engagement effort was to collect public input on proposed improvements to the Mormon Row area. The main goal of the project is to improve the visitor experience and preserve the historic district, according to a Facebook post by GTNP.

The project proposals include:

  • Create a pedestrian and cycling-only zone within the district to improve safety and reduce vehicle impact
  • Expand and relocate the parking area to the southeast corner of Antelope Flats Road and Mormon Row Road
  • Enhance interpretive and directional signage to relay the area’s significance
  • Restore native vegetation and improve ecological function
  • Add new visitor amenities, including restrooms and an information kiosk

The public was largely supportive, per the GTNP Foundation, with many responses in favor of improved parking, safety and education. Concerns were raised about protecting local wildlife and preserving the site’s historic feel. These comments will inform the final design, which will be completed this summer. Construction is expected to begin in 2026.

“These improvements will help protect Mormon Row’s authenticity while enhancing how visitors experience this iconic place,” reads the Facebook post.

Since April, crews contracted through the GTNP Foundation have been working on restoration of the historic Roy Chambers house, which is a one-and-a-half-story home constructed in 1911. It retains a high level of historic integrity with original doors, windows, cabinetry and woodwork, according to the GTNP Foundation. Once this restoration work is complete, the site will provide seasonal employee housing.

The Roy Chambers house seen with new siding. Photo courtesy of Grand Teton National Park

“The Chambers site will provide four seasonal employee housing units, meeting critical operational needs while preserving the structure’s historic integrity,” GTNP Foundation wrote on its blog. “This project exemplifies the Foundation’s commitment to adaptive reuse — giving historic buildings new life in service of the park.”

The main house and bunkhouse have already received new siding, the interior walls are framed, utilities are in place and drywall was completed at the end of July. A new well and septic system will be installed before the end of summer.

Monica is a Staff Reporter who studied journalism at Syracuse University and has been in the valley since 2015. She loves writing about the local food and bev scene, especially craft beer. When she’s not on the clock, you can find her paddle boarding, sewing, or whipping up a new recipe at home.