Statement from Grand Canyon National Park on the Resumption of Visitor Services Following End of Government Shutdown
January 23, 2018
Grand Canyon, Arizona - Following the enactment of the continuing resolution, staff at Grand Canyon National Park resumed regular operations this morning. Please visit www.nps.gov/grca for updated information about the park.
"Grand Canyon National Park appreciates the partnerships we have with Governor Ducey, the State of Arizona, Arizona State Parks and Trails, Arizona Office of Tourism and the Grand Canyon Association. The protection of Grand Canyon's natural and cultural resources is our shared responsibility and a commitment to every American, every visitor, every day," said Superintendent Christine Lehnertz.
Both the State of Arizona and the park's official partner, Grand Canyon Association, contributed donations to Grand Canyon National Park to continue to provide limited visitor services during the three day shutdown. A significant driver in the national economy, the National Park Service returns more than $10 for every $1 invested and it factors in the local economy as well. In 2016 visitors to Grand Canyon National Park spent $648,170,900 in communities near the park. That spending supported 9,779 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $904,315,700.
"We'd also like to thank our in-park business partners and neighbors in the town of Tusayan for continuing to support operations during the three day lapse in appropriations. We are a strong, connected community and come together during difficult times," said Incident Commander Matt Vandzura.
Grand Canyon National Park's employees are happy to be back at work, serving the American people and welcoming visitors to their national parks.