In April 2006 the National Park Service announced plans to increase fees in 2007 for several park facilities. The new fees go into effect beginning April 1, 2007 for the Silver Lake Marina and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse 2007 season. The new fees will cover increased costs for park operations and visitor services provided for the visiting public.
Beginning April 1, 2007 through Nov. 30, 2007, docking fees at the Silver Lake Marina on Ocracoke Island will be $1.25 per foot/per day with a maximum charge of $100.00 per day. From Dec. 1, 2007 through March 31, 2008, off season rates will be 60 cents per foot/per day with a maximum charge of $48.00 per day. Electric service rates of $3.00 per day for 110 volt service and $5.00 per day for 220 volt service remain unchanged and are valid for summer and winter seasons.
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse opens to climbing on Friday, April 20, 2007 and, in holding with tradition, admittance is free on opening day. Beginning April 21, 2007, the recreational fee to climb the Lighthouse will be $7.00 for adults and $3.50 for seniors, age 62 and older, the disabled, and children under 12 years of age. The fee is also $3.50 for persons possessing a Golden Age or Golden Access Pass and anyone possessing the new ATB National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Senior or Access Pass.
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray emphasized that fees collected are used for visitor services associated with operating the Lighthouse, preservation and maintenance work, and a variety of other park projects. Murray stated, "The increased fees are necessary to offset the costs of operating the Lighthouse and maintaining park facilities in good condition."
The National Park Service fee program was authorized under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act of 2004. This law allows Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Wright Brothers National Memorial to retain 80% of all fees collected. The remaining 20% of fees collected are shared with other parks service-wide that do not have a fee program.
For more information, call Park Fee Manager, Sue Titchenell, at 252-473-2111 ext. 122.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
