October 2, 2025

Government Shutdown Impacts Tourism in Asheville Area

Asheville, NC, October 2, 2025

News Summary

A government shutdown commenced in Asheville after Congress failed to pass a funding bill. This shutdown may disrupt tourism and recovery efforts in western North Carolina, particularly following Hurricane Helene. Local businesses are concerned about potential long-term damage to their operations. The National Park Service has significantly reduced staff, affecting park services while some areas remain open. Local leaders express urgent needs for additional disaster funding to support the region during this challenging time.

Asheville, North Carolina – A government shutdown began at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, October 1, after Congress failed to approve a stopgap spending bill. This shutdown is poised to have significant impacts on western North Carolina, particularly concerning tourism and recovery efforts related to the economic struggles following Hurricane Helene.

The impact of the shutdown will largely depend on its duration, as stated by Dr. Chris Cooper, a political science professor at Western Carolina University. Towns and businesses relying heavily on tourism may face serious disruptions that could hinder recovery progress in the region.

Among the areas expected to be affected are the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and security protocols at Asheville Airport. Reduced staffing levels in federal offices could slow emergency response times in national parks, leading officials to advise visitors to exercise caution during this period.

The National Park Service has furloughed about two-thirds of its employees; however, many park roads, trails, and outdoor spaces remain open to the public. Although roads, trails, and lookouts in Great Smoky Mountains National Park are accessible, some facilities, including visitor centers and campgrounds, are closed. The Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open, but visitors should expect service disruptions.

State-level impacts are also notable, with approximately 200 state employees set to be furloughed starting October 1, according to the North Carolina Office of State Human Resources. The Office of Management and Budget has yet to provide a new estimate on how many federal workers may be furloughed or go without pay during this shutdown.

Local leaders, including Congressman Chuck Edwards, have expressed concerns that the government shutdown could lead to “irreparable damage” in Western North Carolina, particularly regarding the vital tourism sector. Further, Vic Isley, President/CEO of Explore Asheville, has emphasized the pressing need for additional federal funding for disaster relief, particularly as the federal government considers providing an additional $22.5 billion in disaster relief funding that is crucial for the region’s recovery efforts.

Political tensions in Washington, D.C., have been highlighted by both local and state leaders, emphasizing the shutdown’s adverse effects on local economies. To ensure a safe visit during the ongoing shutdown, visitors are advised to check the National Park Service website for updates on closures and park conditions.

FAQ Section

What happened on October 1, 2023?

A government shutdown began at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, October 1, after Congress failed to approve a stopgap spending bill.

How will the shutdown affect western North Carolina?

The shutdown could have significant impacts on western North Carolina, particularly concerning tourism and recovery efforts related to economic struggles from Hurricane Helene.

What are the impacts of the government shutdown on national parks?

The National Park Service has furloughed about two-thirds of its employees while keeping most park roads, trails, and outdoor spaces open to the public. However, some sites are closed, including visitor centers and campgrounds.

How many state employees are being furloughed due to the shutdown?

Approximately 200 state employees will be furloughed starting October 1, according to the North Carolina Office of State Human Resources.

What federal funding is being considered for disaster relief?

The federal government is potentially providing an additional $22.5 billion in disaster relief funding, which is crucial for the region’s recovery.

Key Features of the Government Shutdown Impact

Feature	Details
Shutdown Start	12:01 a.m. on October 1, 2023
Areas Affected	Western North Carolina, especially tourism and recovery efforts
National Park Impact	Two-thirds of National Park Service employees furloughed
Tourism Center Status	Visitor centers and campgrounds are closed; some services disrupted
State Employee Furloughs	Approx. 200 state employees furloughed
Federal Disaster Funding	Potential additional $22.5 billion for recovery