BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – With the government shutdown hitting the one-week mark, visitors in Brevard County are feeling the impacts at federally funded destinations.
The entrance gates at Canaveral National Seashore remain closed, as well as buildings and facilities that require staffing.
Alexander Day was planning to visit Playalinda Beach with his family on Tuesday, but was turned around after seeing the closure.
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“My mother-in-law is here from the Philippines; we were going to show her that, but not today,” Day said. “Probably just drive around. Maybe go back home and figure out something to do.”
The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is open to the public, but the visitor center and other facilities are closed.
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Visitors can also expect limited or no restrooms, trash collection, or educational programs.
With outdoor areas still accessible, Brianna Gudder was able to go fishing on Tuesday along the Haulover Canal.
“Personally, I think it’s amazing. You can see the manatees and the dolphins and just the wildlife itself is perfect,” Gudder said.
During the shutdown, people visiting the wildlife refuge are allowed access to trails, wildlife drives, areas like the manatee observation deck, and boat ramps.
The Canaveral National Seashore Headquarters in Titusville has been closed with a sign notifying visitors of the shutdown that happened on Oct. 1.
“During this lapse in appropriations, national parks will remain as accessible as possible,” the sign stated. “We are doing our best to take care of your parks at this time, but some amenities and services may not be available.
For more details about the National Parks Service response to the government shutdown, click here.