Trails closing?

Well, there’s always ducking under the “Police Line – Do Not Cross” ribbon…

This is ridiculous. I’m sure it will cost more to close it than to leave it open. What is the cost to “operate” the CCT on a daily basis? It’s not like they have gate guards or something. This is clearly an opportunity to inflict pain in the process as opposed to being somewhat rational.

The “closing” of things like trails is probably due partly to liability concerns and to make it clear that if you use the trail, don’t expect it to be maintained or patrolled, or for NPS to help you out of you have a problem.

Relax. There is a lot of anxiety out there.

Last time, in 1995, if it had a gate, the gate was closed. If it did not have a gate, then there was nothing to close.

So TR Island was closed. The Mall I think was technically closed…. but you could walk on it. There would just be no services. And you could not go into any of the memorials.

I recall that Skyline Drive was closed, as in the gate was closed. I do not recall what was done if they found you in the park. But then again it could be considered trespassing on federal land.

My concern is that you get the feeling that people in power are digging trenches. This could be a long one. I dont think there is any way the Administration is going to blink. So its a matter of how long until the tea party backs down.

Oh and remember, traffic levels will be down to blizzard days. AFter tomorrow morning, there wont be much (I plan on getting as many house chores done as I can)

Actually, the question is whether the Republican leadership caves to the Tea Party or the Democrats.

The Democrats view that a shutdown will redound to their political favor. Things like trail closings and cancelling the White House Tours and Easter Egg roll may be overreach. Only time will determine the victors.

I think WABA jumped the gun on that email and had no actual evidence, just speculation.

No bathrooms on the National Mall! Panic!

I love that this forum is the first place I find out about the shutdown and opm and my agency still say we are open.