Dear Friends,
As the news about COVID-19 develops, many people are turning to the outdoors to ease their stress and regain a sense of calm. We know that the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the natural places that can provide peace and perspective during these uncertain times.
At this time, the Parkway remains open, with the exception of standard seasonal road and facility closures and the temporary closure of the Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville, N.C. If you are planning to visit the Parkway, we encourage you to check the Parkway’s website for any changes in operations. You can find road closure information here.
As a national treasure that came to life during the Great Depression, the Blue Ridge Parkway is no stranger to difficulty. Like the road itself, the Parkway’s history includes many highs and lows. It benefited from the Civilian Conservation Corps before seeing many of those hard-working young men go off to war. It enjoyed tremendous federal financial support for many years, although its budget today falls far short of its needs. Snow and ice, landslides, and shutdowns have closed parts or all of the Parkway at various times. But the Parkway has endured.
Whatever may come in the next few weeks and months, the Parkway will be here for you and your loved ones. I hope it brings you happiness and calm during this stressful time.
Please take care & be well,
Carolyn Ward
CEO
P.S. We invite you to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for updates on the Parkway and the good work you have made possible.