# Pitkin County Assumes Maroon Bells Management

Pitkin County will take over management of the Maroon Bells Scenic Area in Colorado starting in 2027 through a special use permit agreement with the U.S. Forest Service. This transition addresses ongoing staffing, funding, and infrastructure challenges by establishing a sustainable public management model. The county plans to implement updated fee structures to support maintenance and operations, reinvesting revenue directly into the site to ensure continued high-quality public access.

- This shift creates procurement opportunities for vendors and contractors specializing in park maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, and visitor services under Pitkin County's oversight.
- Procurement professionals should note the county's focus on sustainable funding models, which may influence contract structures and fee-based revenue management.
- Organizations providing public land management, environmental services, and infrastructure support in Colorado should evaluate potential engagement with Pitkin County as it assumes operational responsibilities.
- The transition highlights the importance of interagency agreements and public-private collaboration in managing federally owned recreational areas.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Environment
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 24, 2026

### Government Entities
- Pitkin County Board of County Commissioners
- U.S. Forest Service (USFS)

### Key Quotes
> By keeping management in public hands, we can build on decades of partnership, reinvest the revenue generated at the Bells directly into this extraordinary place and continue providing high-quality public access.
> — Kara Silbernagel, County Manager

### Sources
- [Pitkin County to begin overseeing Maroon Bells Scenic Area in 2027](https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/pitkin-county-to-begin-overseeing-maroon-bells-scenic-area-in-2027-increased-fees-expected) - Denver7