Gov. Doug Ducey says travelers planning to visit the Grand Canyon shouldn't worry about changing plans as the possibility of a government shutdown looms.
The #GrandCanyon will not close on our watch. Period. If Washington,
DC won’t function. Arizona WILL. Don’t change your travel plans. Count on it.— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) January 19, 2018
The Interior Department has said that if there is a government shutdown, up to 417 national park sites could be closed, though the Trump administration is going to "try to allow limited access wherever possible."
That position is a change from previous shutdowns, when most parks were closed and became high-profile symbols of dysfunction.
Spokeswoman Heather Swift said public roads that already open are likely to remain open, although services that require staffing and maintenance such as campgrounds, full-service restrooms and concessions won't be operating. Backcountry lands and culturally sensitive sites are likely to be restricted or closed, she said.
Up to 417 national park sites could be closed, though the Trump administration is going to "try to allow limited access wherever possible," Interior Department spokeswoman Heather Swift told CNN
