Cell phone GPS signals help state determine funding for recreation areas [Video]

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – The Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation shared its data Monday with the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce during their “Make it Monday” luncheon in an effort to improve Alaska’s recreation areas.

During the presentation, Ricky Gease, the director of the Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, said one way they collected the data was by tracking cell phone GPS data trends over the last three years.

Gease says the information is anonymous, but it helps them to see the most visited recreation areas and prioritize what places need the most attention.

The Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) for 2023-2027 presents the next steps on where funding should go.

“When we make investments in infrastructure for Alaska state parks, we’re investing in ourselves, whether it’s our own personal health and wellness, that of our families, our economic health, workforce development,” Gease said. “It’s a great industry, …