Valley Forge Park Could Close To Public If Government Shuts Down

VALLEY FORGE, PA — With a government shutdown looming on Thursday, a local nonprofit is warning residents that Valley Forge National Historical Park would likely be closed to visitors unless a deal is reached.

The Valley Forge Park Alliance made the statement on Thursday afternoon, urging residents to contact their representatives in U.S. Congress to keep the land open.

"Tell them you understand the closing of buildings like the Visitor Center but the open land should remain available to the citizens. It is their land, after all," the organization said.

The Alliance added that the park maintains a small ranger staff even during park closures to help maintain safety in the area. That staff would prevent visitors from evening entering the park or using the trails within its boundaries, officials said.

"That same staff could be used to instead oversee potential issues," the Alliance said.

The shutdown could occur if Democrats and Republicans do not agree on a budget before the rapidly approaching deadline at midnight on Friday.

AP Photo/Matt Rourke