Zion National Park will welcome the East Zion Discovery Center at the eastern entrance in Mt. Carmel, with its grand opening planned for spring 2026.

This new 25,000-square-foot center, set on a 30-acre campus, will serve as a vital orientation hub for visitors arriving from U.S. 89.

Designed to ease congestion on the park’s west side, the center will blend indoor and outdoor educational spaces, trails, exhibits, a café, and a retail area.

It will also introduce an electric vehicle shuttle hub, aiming to reduce traffic within Zion Canyon.

Collaboratively managed by private stakeholders, the National Park Service, the Zion National Park Forever Project, and local partners, the project emphasizes conservation and efficient visitor flow.

A separate redesign of the East Entrance landscape and visitor center is funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, enhancing year-round access.

Hike the Three Peaks Trail for a stunning panoramic view of Cedar City and surrounding areas.

The pizza at Centro Woodfired Pizzeria is inspired by traditional Italian cooking techniques and proven family recipes handed down over generations. Casual yet sophisticated spot serving artisanal wood-fired pizzas along with local microbrews.

The ongoing federal government shutdown threatens to halt Essential Air Service (EAS) funding, which could severely disrupt air travel in Utah’s rural communities.

Airports in Moab, Vernal, and Cedar City depend on EAS subsidies to connect remote regions with critical airline routes.

With the Department of Transportation warning that EAS funds may run out by Sunday, concerns are mounting over the future of these vital flights.

Steve Gleason, director of Canyonlands Airport, stressed a strong commitment to service despite the financial uncertainty, linking steady flight operations with local economic health.

Meanwhile, Tyler Galetka of Cedar City Regional Airport voiced uncertainty about airline decisions, noting carriers are currently flying without financial assurance.

If funding lapses, local officials are preparing contingency plans, aiming to safeguard both traveler access and regional revenues.

Thunderbird Gardens in Cedar City faces a turning point as its management team reevaluates their roles and future plans.

Recent changes across Cedar City, including population growth and new real estate ventures, have reshaped local priorities.

The grand opening of the Asteri housing complex in October 2024 brought 45 affordable apartments, expanding residential choices for families and individuals.

Further demonstrating progress, the Iron County Commission approved a key zoning change in April 2025, paving the way for new businesses near the South Exit 51 interchange.

In response, Thunderbird Gardens’ stewards are actively exploring ways to adapt the park’s amenities and stewardship.

Residents can soon voice their opinions in public forums, helping shape decisions on improvements and long-term goals.

As Cedar City evolves, local partnerships will be essential to preserving and enhancing valued community spaces.