Federal shutdown effecting institutions on Delmarva

ASSATEAGUE ISLAND, Md. – The shutdown in Washington is now effecting us here locally, as visitors to the national park in Assateague Island will now stumble upon signs warning of different facilities across the park now closed.

Visitors like Jawwad Baig, from Dallas. He and his family traveled across the country for the holidays, Assateague was one of their planned destinations.

“My sister did some research on places to go in this area, probably not around this time, but in this area and that’s how we found Assateague.”

When they arrived amid the shutdown they came to find out the visitors center closed, with all park programs now canceled.

“I think they have like a biking excursion here, so unfortunately that’s also closed,” said Baig.

However, those who come regularly to the park regularly say it hasn’t effected them as much, if you are simply there to enjoy the scenery.

“If you’re just looking to come around, see the ponies, we saw some deer on this road, and it’s nice this time of day,” said Bob Trimbach, a visitor from New Jersey.

Trimbach says aside from the restrooms that are now locked, it has been the same experience for him.

“We’re still allowed in the park that they didn’t close the gates and all,” said Trimbach. “Looks like they’re still letting people camp in here, so that’s good.”

Park roads, beaches, trails and the Over-Sand Vehicle zone at Assateague Island National Seashore, will remain open to visitors, however emergency and rescue services will be limited.

There will also be no trash collection, or facility and road maintenance. The National Park Service website and social media are not being monitored or updated, and they do not reflect current conditions.