With Shutdown Over, A Return To Normal For Valley Forge Park

VALLEY FORGE, PA — With the federal government shutdown at least temporarily over, normal operations have resumed at Valley Forge, a unit of the National Park Service.

The park had remained open to the public during the 35-day shutdown, the longest in American history. However, it was left unstaffed by federal employees who typically provide patrols, tours, information, and staffing for the visitor center.

Thanks to a partnership with the Encampment Store, however, the Visitor Center was able to remain open during the shutdown and continue to provide basic park information.

"We were proud to work with The Encampment Store to keep Valley Forge Park’s Visitor Center open,” Mike Bowman, President and CEO of the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board. "We know people – both nationally and internationally – are passionate about this iconic park, and so are we. It’s one of the region’s most visited destinations, and has a significant impact on the area."

The shutdown could resume in three weeks if a long-term agreement is not reached by then.

See related:

• How The Government Shutdown Impacts Valley Forge
• Valley Forge Park To Open New Temporary Visitor Center

Photo by Mark Makela/Getty Images