The government shutdown is now on its 20th day. The shutdown is greatly affecting Smoky National Park. The park has stopped maintenance and has forced multiple employees to take vacation time or family leave.
It has been said that roads surrounding the park will not be taken care of. For example, if it snows the roads will not be salted. Many locals have been donating to the parks donation box leaving it full to the brim.
“It’s totally dumb that the park has shut down because of the government,” said Angelina Weston.
With the shutdown continuing the park will have to lay off more staff.