Updated 7:45 a.m.: A budget agreement has been reached, there will be no government shutdown.
Updated 4:45 p.m.: This just in from the Army Corps of Engineers:
The current Continuing Resolution Authority expires at midnight tonight, should federal funds become unavailable, the following locations and services to the public would be affected until funding became available:
Vessel navigation would continue to remain available through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard, however staffing limitations may cause longer locking times. The park grounds at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard would be closed, including access through the park. The Corps of Engineers’ Regulatory permitting offices would close. The Corps of Engineers’ aerial maps and engineering records section would be closed. The park at Mud Mountain Dam would be closed, and rangers would not be patrolling trails or other access points. Corps of Engineers-maintained boat ramps at Chief Joseph Dam, Libby Dam and on Lake Pend Orielle would not be patrolled by Corps staff. Visitor Centers, campgrounds and day-use facilities will be closed at all Corps locks and dams. Security personnel will remain on staff at all Corps dams. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is preparing for the closure of all Corps-operated campgrounds and day-use parks nationwide beginning Saturday, April 9, if the potential shutdown of the federal government goes into effect. Affected recreation areas would not reopen until after the shutdown is lifted.
An update will be provided, if conditions change.
Updated: We just got this notice from the Army Corps of Engineers:
If a federal government shutdown is ordered, the Chittenden Locks in Ballard will remain open to vessel traffic, but lockings may be slowed due to staffing limitations. We will notify mariners if the situation changes.
Patricia Graesser with the Corps tells us that they do not know about foot traffic at this point. In the event that there is no funding, she says that the Corps parks could be closed. Once they have specific information, she will let us know.
Earlier: In the event of a government shutdown, Kiro7 is reporting that the Ballard Locks could cease operation.
“The Army Corps of Engineers said it does not know yet for sure, but the possibility exists that no boats would be able to pass through the locks,” according to Kirotv.com. Fisherman Jeff Coyne tells the news station that he knows of three tug boat companies and five salmon processing companies that would be directly affected if the Locks were to close. And of course all the recreational boaters would be affected, as well.
A representative from the Corps told Kiro7 that they don’t expect to get official word from the government until the possible shutdown goes into effect, which could happen tomorrow. More information and video from Kiro7 can be found here. A good FAQ on the possible government shutdown can be found here.