NPS - National Park Service

11/19/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/19/2024 09:50

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument Breaks Ground on New Visitor Center

Date:
November 19, 2024
Contact: James Novitsky , 406-924-9167

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument to Break Ground on New Visitor Center

CROW AGENCY, Mont. - Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument recently awarded a construction contract to replace the park's aging visitor center built in 1951. The National Park Service is coordinating with the park's associated Tribes and stakeholders to develop interpretive exhibits that better tell the complex stories surrounding the landscape, site, and people. Work is scheduled to begin on November 25, 2024.

The nearly $14 million project is funded by the Centennial Challenge program and donations through the National Park Foundation (NPF), including a lead grant from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.

The new 9,000 square foot building will be constructed on the footprint of the old visitor center. Nomlaki Technologies LLC, based in West Sacramento, California, is a 100% tribally owned company of members of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians. The new building will provide prominent views of the battlefield and will feature a roof deck, an improved parking area, accessible walkways, and enhanced visitor amenities to accommodate increased visitor use.

"We are incredibly grateful for the support from NPF, our Friends groups and several private donors who helped fund this major project," said Little Bighorn Battlefield Superintendent Dustin Sene. "Not only is the NPS responsible for managing this site and the national cemetery, we also have the honor to bring together the unique voices that form the complex story behind the battle. The new visitor center will provide an opportunity to share those stories in a more modern and engaging way."


Phases of the visitor center project
The project will have two phases which will take place from approximately fall 2024 through late Summer 2026.

  • Phase I Demolition: Includes the installation of a temporary visitor contact station and the major demolition of the old building and removal of the materials from the site.
  • Phase II Construction: Includes the construction of the new building, interior exhibit installation and site development.
Adjustments to park operations During the two phases, the park may adjust operations and utilize temporary closures to ensure visitor safety, the protection of cultural and natural resources, and to accommodate the use of heavy equipment and movement of materials on the park's only roadway. For the most up-to-date park information and operating hours, please visit the park website at www.nps.gov/libi .

Access during construction

  • Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument - During construction, a temporary visitor center and bookstore will be on site. https://www.nps.gov/libi/planyourvisit/hours.htm ·
  • Big Horn County Museum - During park closures, the National Park Service will have a visitor contact station at the Big Horn County Museum in Hardin, Montana. The museum, currently open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, also hosts the Western National Parks Association bookstore and offers viewings of the Little Bighorn movie. Be sure to check www.bighorncountymuseum.org for the latest hours and visit the National Park Service website for updates on ranger availability and park access.
  • National Cemetery and Tribal Sites - Although the national cemetery is not located directly in the construction zone, guests should proceed with caution while visiting. If you have any questions, please ask NPS staff. For requests during closures related to visits, internments, or ceremonial activities, please contact e-mail us.
Stay informed Visitors planning a trip to Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument should check the website for up-to-date hours of operations during the construction project.

NOTE: Traffic patterns around the visitor center have been adjusted. Parking for RVs and large vehicles will be very limited. Please note that RVs, large vehicles­­­­­­­­­­ and any vehicles towing trailers will not be able to enter the parking lot near the temporary visitor center. Visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly and follow posted signs for parking and traffic flow to ensure safety and avoid congestion.