![Park officials hope Fort Barrancas’ change in operational hours is temporary and they can resume a seven-day operation soon. [Public domain]](http://127.0.0.1/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/ghows-DA-477e8332-6bab-4426-e053-0100007f15d6-4aa05f43.jpeg)
GULF BREEZE — Fort Barrancas and its associated visitor center will be closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays starting March 1, Gulf Islands National Seashore officials announced.
The park is changing to a five-day schedule because of shortages in visitor services and fee collection staff. Park officials hope the measure will be temporary and they can resume a seven-day operation soon.
“The park worked to identify the days that would have the least impact to visitors,” a Gulf Islands National Seashore news release stated. “After evaluating all factors, it was determined that Tuesdays and Wednesdays would have the least impact. All other areas of the park will remain open seven days a week, including Fort Pickens.”
Fort Barrancas, located onboard Naval Air Station Pensacola, was built in the mid-1800s along with the Advanced Redoubt to defend the old Naval Shipyard.
Visitors can take a guided or self-guided tour of the fortifications and learn more about their story within the visitor center.
Access to Naval Air Station Pensacola is available to the public through the West Gate; all visitors must show valid photo identification.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Fort Barrancas temporarily changes operating hours