Sandy Springs Park Considering Adjustments for Sequestration

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area spokesperson Rudy Evenson says sequestration budget cuts would affect summer hires and decisions will be based on visitor safety.

The park on Island Ford Parkway in Sandy Springs is one of 15 sites along 48 miles of river. Five seasonal workers are usually hired and go through orientation before Memorial Day weekend. Only two may be hired if there is sequestration and those are in doubt too, Evenson said. Generally, they mow the lawns; keep up restrooms and boat ramps, and repair broken items in facilities.

"If the sequestration is not resolved well in advance of [Memorial Day] we will have to start making determinations on hires and which park facilities can be maintained this summer," Evenson told Patch. "We have to make decisions based on visitors' safety. We don't want to lock any gates that would prevent emergency personnel from being able to get to people in the river."

Three million people visit Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area parks per year, according to superintendent Patty Wissinger.

See also

The Sequestor: Shenanigans or Serious Business?