If you were planning on visiting Pinnacles National Park on Tuesday, you might want to rethink your travel plans.
As a result of a possible government shutdown in Washington, Pinnacles National Park could be shuttered until the federal budget issue is resolved, according to a spokesman for Rep. Sam Farr, D-Carmel.
Some law enforcement for the park would be retained, but the park would be closed to visitors and employees furloughed without pay until further notice, said Leticia Ruiz, acting superintendent for Pinnacles National Park.
Employees will be expected to come in on Tuesday as usual to secure their offices, but will be sent home for the rest of the day, she said.
Park rangers would close and lock the gates and would remain on duty to make sure visitors stay out of the park and off the trails, she said.
“On October 1st, all federal employees will stop receiving pay and most government services will be shut down,” Farr said in a statement. “I call on the Speaker (of the House of Representatives) to move past these political games and bring forward a CR (continuing resolution) that fully funds the federal government.”
Pinnacles National Monument became a national park in January, after President Obama signed legislation designating the spot as the 59th national park in the country.
