Petrified Forest buildings earn national landmark status

The Petrified Forest National Park area has always drawn travelers. American Indians passed through on foot, soldiers rode on camels and horseback, but it was the vacationing suburbanites piling into station wagons on Route 66 that made the park famous.

Now the buildings that greeted those travelers, known as the Painted Desert Community Complex, have been named a historic landmark.

Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell included the complex on a list of 24 new landmarks through a program that recognizes historic properties, preservation efforts, tribal culture, organizations and individuals.

The buildings were part of the Mission 66 program, a post-World War II effort to improve park infrastructure. Designed by renowned architects Richard J. Neutra and Robert E. Alexander, the buildings aged over time and have gotten more attention from the park.

Celebrating 100 years of national parks

Park Superintendent Brad Traver said the designation will help the park service protect and preserve the buildings, which are considered significant examples of mid-century modern architecture.

The complex includes the visitor center, offices and a restaurant once operated by the Fred Harvey Company. The restaurant is now operated by Ortega National Parks.

The program provides states and local communities technical assistance, recognition and funding for preservation.

National Historic Landmarks are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, if they are not already on the list.

Jewell also named the Neutra Studio and Residences in Los Angeles as historic landmarks.

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