by Meteor staff
Friday March 27
Flagstaff — Yesterday, The Coconino County Board of Supervisors called on the Department of Interior to temporarily close Grand Canyon National Park.
Citing the need for social distancing the Board says the Park should be closed.
In a press release the Board said, “For the safety and health of Coconino County healthcare providers, residents and visitors, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors strongly urge Department of Interior Secretary David Bernhardt to close Grand Canyon National Park due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The Board also called on local, state and federal officials to join the Board in calling for the closure of the park.
“The Grand Canyon is the crown jewel of parks across the County and country. However, it is important that the park adheres to proven guidance to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing measures in response to pandemics work. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, closures aimed to reduce the spread of infection have been proven to be extremely effective. Keeping the park open and allowing travelers from all over the world to come here and risk spreading COVID-19 is an unnecessary risk.” — Board of Supervisors.
Locally elected officials know their communities and how best to look out for the public health of the people they serve. Leaders in Washington D.C. should heed, and seek out, the advice of, local leaders for the safety of Coconino County, the state and the nation.”
