SHARPSBURG, Md. – After an outcry from communities in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and West Virginia that surround the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historic Park, the National Park Service is rescinding its proposal to charge fees at every entry point along the C&O Canal that stretches 185 miles.
“Our revised proposal rescinds the portion of the proposal to collect fees in locations where we do not currently collect fees,” park Deputy Superintendent John Noel said in an email. The National Park Service only charges fees in Great Falls, Md. Those charges include fees for individual admission, parking, campgrounds and pavilion. The proposal to hike fees at the Great Falls location is still in place.
“We are committed to keeping the park affordable and providing visitors with the best possible experiences,” park Superintendent Kevin Brandt said in the release on Thursday. “Fee revenue is absolutely critical to the park operation, and we ask for the public’s feedback and support.”
While fees are being charged in Great Falls, Md., community members in West Virginia are happy with the decision to revoke the proposal.
“It’s a great relief to know the C&O Canal will be free and accessible for all to enjoy the beauty of our area,” Brittany Heatwole, 24, a resident of Harpers Ferry, W.Va., said.
“I think National Parks being integral to communities and culture should always be a top priority for any state’s budget plan,” said Evan Whalen, 30, a resident of Shepherdstown, W.Va.
Although fees park-wide are no longer being considered, there are several meetings scheduled to hear public comment. A Shepherdstown meeting is set for Feb. 11 at Shepherd University in the Storer Ballroom in the Student Center from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. A meeting in Brunswick, Md., is set for Feb. 17 at Brunswick City Park Building from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
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