Residents Disregard Park Closures After Irene

Update, 11 a.m.: The C&O National Historical Park entrance at Falls Road in Potomac was open as of 10:30 a.m. Monday. Crews were working to clear the last of the debris on the park road.

Original story: Despite closed gates, caution tape and posted warnings, dozens of area nature lovers flocked to the C&O National Historical Park and on Falls Road in Potomac to enjoy hikes, bike rides and kayaking Sunday afternoon. Though Hurricane Irene had only passed by Saturday night, killing at least 20 people in eight states and causing , people could not be deterred from enjoying what turned into a beautiful sunny day.

Singles, couples and families of all ages parked their cars along Falls Road and ducked under the C&O Park’s closed gates, with children and dogs in tow. According to Bill Line, spokesperson for the National Park Service, they do so at their own risk. “We can see what regard people have for their own personal safety,” Line said, adding, “the real question is, ‘why are people disregarding signs that are put up?’”

National Park Police reported Sunday that the Maryland side of the C&O National Park was closed completely at the Falls Road entrance due to power outages caused by fallen trees. Line expects the entrance to be opened sometime Monday, stating that chances were “high.” 

In the meantime, Line assures the public that a danger does exist for personal injury. “Anything could really happen,” he said. Those caught disregarding closure signs, could face penalties including tickets.