Ariz. Senators McCain, Flake release statement on Grand Canyon reopening
Oct 12, 2013, 9:39 AM | Updated: 9:39 am
In response to the reopening of Grand Canyon National Park Saturday, Arizona Senators John McCain and Jeff Flake issued a joint statement praising state governor Jan Brewer for her work in the matter.
“We are pleased that Secretary Jewell and Governor Brewer have reached an agreement to reopen the Grand Canyon National Park using donated funds. It makes no sense for Washington’s dysfunction to continue hurting Arizonans whose livelihoods depend on Park tourism. We strongly encourage the thousands of visitors who intended to travel to the Grand Canyon this Columbus Day weekend to keep their vacation plans and enjoy this remarkable national treasure.”
Arizona agreed to the Obama administration’s proposal, which requires states to account for the expenses required to operate the national parks while the federal government remains shut down.
Brewer and state personnel opted in to the agreement, prizing tourism money over operating costs.
Arizona will pay Park Service $651,000 to keep Grand Canyon National Park open for seven days.
