In the documents PEER received in its FOIA request, the Park Service said the fees were dropped because the project was “clearly in the public interest and consistent with the purposes and values of the park area.”
PEER argued the fees could only be dropped if the cable was for “exclusive park use,” according to regulations in effect at the time the company requested the right of way. But the rule governing right of ways was modified late in 2024, in part to “reflect current policies and practices,” adding the new exemption.
