Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer, and an influx of tourists are expected to come through the state to visit some of Wyoming's national parks. But as with everything, this year is a little different.
Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks just opened earlier this week but with limited capacity. Tourists are now starting to roll through gateway communities like Cody.
Tina Hoebelheinrich, Cody Country Chamber of Commerce's president and CEO, said the number of tourists coming through is significantly down from previous years but they are still coming. She said businesses are having a tough time getting the proper personal protective equipment and cleaning supplies.
"They're spending a lot of time and resources, and just really trying to not only find those but find the materials that they need to be open and safe and to be in a place where they can afford them," she said.
But Hoebleheinrich said all businesses currently have enough of these supplies to be open, but they are just trying to make sure they have enough for the entire season. For the time being, businesses are doing what they can to prepare.
"They're adapting to new regulations in terms of... a server can't even clear and empty plates from the table now. They're not allowed to touch those. So a separate person has to come by and do that," she said. "And in every instance when I've been out, those guidelines are being observed."
Hoebelheinrich said businesses are cautiously optimistic that the rest of the summer season will be a good one.
Have a question about this story? Contact the reporter, Kamila Kudelska, at kkudelsk@uwyo.edu.
