US tourist sites reopen
US tourist sites including the Grand Canyon and Statue of Liberty are reopening after deals between state officials and the federal government.
Arizona and New York will fund the attractions from their own budgets, and are unlikely to be reimbursed, reports the BBC.
Other states are now weighing up whether they can justify the outlay of cash to keep their parks open.
The tourist sites were forced to close after the first shutdown in 17 years began on October 1.
Republicans had refused to authorise any more spending unless Congress delayed President Barack Obama’s health reforms for at least a year, see previous story.
New York will have to pay out about $60,000 (£37,000) a day to keep the Statue of Liberty open.
Arizona will pay almost $100,000 a day to keep the Grand Canyon open, initially for the next seven days.
Arizona Governor Jan Brewer said: "I’m gratified the Obama administration agreed to reverse its policy and allow Arizona to reopen Grand Canyon, Arizona’s most treasured landmark and a crucial driver of revenue to the state."
Analysts estimate that the Canyon brings in roughly 18,000 visitors each day during the current peak season, and revenue of roughly $1m.
South Dakota worked out a deal with corporate donors and the National Park Service to reopen Mount Rushmore on Monday.
And Utah and Colorado have also reached deals to keep their parks open.
Interior Secretary Sally Jewell said in a statement the states had found a "practical and temporary solution" that would "lessen the pain for some businesses and communities".
Diane
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