Big Bend National Park will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Feb. 12 at 10 a.m. to celebrate the completion of renovations at the historic Panther Junction Service Station.
Park officials and Casa Grande Hospitality, a subsidiary of Aramark Destinations, are inviting the public to attend the event, which will mark the reopening of the facility following extensive restoration and modernization work.
Originally built in 1958, the Panther Junction Service Station is part of the park’s Mission 66 historic district and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building was designed to serve as a welcoming gateway for visitors, blending into the surrounding desert landscape. Its distinctive roofline mirrors nearby Lone Mountain, reflecting the architectural philosophy of the Mission 66 era.
The 864-square-foot interior was renovated in summer 2025 to update the facility while preserving its historic character. Improvements include an open floor plan with increased natural lighting, a self-checkout kiosk, new cabinetry and shelving, updated wall fixtures and coolers, and remodeled restrooms.
The renovated station now offers visitors access to snacks, beverages, souvenirs, and sundries. Officials said the updates are intended to improve convenience while maintaining the building’s original appearance.
Exterior upgrades were also completed as part of the project. These include a covered pavilion equipped with solar panels to house a future food trailer, which is expected to begin serving visitors in spring 2026. Additional improvements include new picnic tables, a bike rack, a generator, an electric vehicle charging station, and fresh asphalt paving.
Park representatives said the project reflects an ongoing commitment to preserving historic structures while meeting the needs of modern visitors.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony is open to the public, and community members and park visitors are encouraged to attend.
