Trump weighs $4M private road through Yosemite

In a controversial proposal, the Trump administration is considering a land swap to allow a private road through Yosemite National Park, according to the wire source. Kingsbarn CEO Jeff Pori paid $4 million for 83 acres outside the park in 2024 and wants to build a short road linking it to one of Yosemite's main roads. This would provide unprecedented access to the national park, potentially leading to the development of a hotel, resort, or private residence on the property.

However, conservation groups and former Yosemite officials criticize the proposal, arguing that it sets a dangerous precedent for private access to national parks. The Interior Department denies any political pressure and claims no final decisions have been made, stating that any land exchange would comply with federal law and undergo environmental review and public notification.