Hanford, PNNL, Manhattan Project remain open during shutdown

KENNEWICK — The Hanford site and other U.S. Department of Energy-directed activities should not be affected by the partial government shutdown.

The Tri-City Herald reports Department of Energy funding was secured in September when President Trump signed the Energy & Water appropriations bill.

The bill funds the federal department through Sept. 30, 2019.

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland has informed staff members they should report to work according to their usual work schedules.

While the National Park Service is affected by the shutdown, the Manhattan Project National Historical Park’s Hanford Unit visitor center in Richland will remain open to the public. It is operated through a Department of Energy contract.