Grand Canyon National Park lost 10 probationary employees to layoffs this month, causing long wait times at the South Rim entrance and delays to the Transcanyon Waterline replacement.
Coconino County Supervisor Patrice Horstman says four of the laid-off workers were stationed at the park’s entry gates. Six were working on the waterline, a long-awaited $200 million project to supply water to the South Rim.
Horstman is worried about lost tourist revenue if lines remain long or hotels and restaurants have to close due to water restrictions.
"We understand everybody loves the Grand Canyon," Horstman tells KNAU. "We love our public lands. We have premier outdoor recreation experiences here in Northern Arizona that is enjoyed and loved by all."
The Trump Administration’s goal is to “significantly reduce the size of government,” which employs 2.4 million people.
The National Park Service lost around a thousand employees to the layoffs. It’s unclear how many positions are vacant due to buyouts or the federal hiring freeze.
