A proposed $20 million New York state budget cut will likely result in closure of New York state parks. A Saratoga Springs Saratogian report says that state parks, already hit hard by previous cuts, are in peril from further cuts.
“Every region will be impacted. It’s not just small, fringe sites. Some of the largest parks might close because they’re the most expensive to operate — Jones Beach, Niagara Falls.”
Unfortunately, possible closings come at a time when people need parks most. Last year, statewide usage increased by2 million visits — from 54 million to 56 million — as residents sought inexpensive, close-to-home vacations. This year, Moreau Lake State Park’s campgrounds are already booked most weekends.
“When times are tough, people use state parks,” said Julie Stokes of Greenfield, former deputy state commissioner for operations. “The impact would be very large. A ton of people from Troy use Grafton Lakes. They bus kids out there. That park is absolutely jammed, seven days a week.”
Read more in the Saratogian: Proposed state budget imperils state parks
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
That’s awaful! New York State’s scenery can rival any other state in the Union (except maybe those who have the Grand Canyon in them). Very awful!
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I agree — and, unfortunately, New York is not the only place where this is happening or has the potential to happen.
I DON’T UNDERSTAND HOW THE MANY PRIVATE CAMPGROUNDS IN NYS OPERATE VERY NICE CAMPGROUNDS MOST WITH ELECTRIC AND FULL HOOK-UP CAN MAKE A PROFIT (EVEN AFTER PAYING NYS HIGH TAXES AND INSURANCE) BUT THE STATE LOOSES MONEY. WHAT’S WRONG WITH THAT PICTURE???
Hmm my father is probably rolling in his grave… he was really into traveling adn taking my Mom and I to as many of the state parks as possible. Interesting comments on that article- looks like some people already have their picks for which park is expendable and which are not.
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Norm – Campgrounds in state parks are just a part of the cost in most cases. I suspect that, in most cases, state park campgrounds support themselves through camping fees.
Michelle – We like to visit state parks when we are traveling, even if we are staying in a private campground. I guess if we visit some of these states that are closing parks, we won’t even be able to do that. What a shame.
Its time that our state politicians start working for the people of the state not their own privat interests and pockets! Closing parks and limiting services and programs in the parks is a SHAM. If wasteful , unnecessary spending were curbed, we wouldn’t have to cut funding to schools, libraries, parks. I don’t see or hear of any of our politicians tightening their belts. Just keep pouring it on the tax payers! Is it any wonder that our young people, and many of the older ones, are leaving this area in droves. I’m ready to pull up stakes myself.
Considering that now the number one money maker in NYS is Tourism, it’s idiotic to understand why they would want to impact this now??? It was reported that State Parks profit 80% of every dollar brought in. When asked if these Parks are running in the Red, the state was unable to answer. Many of the Parks that will close will have impact to local business as well. Not to mention, I would think that for most of these parks we would still have to operate “up-keep” of these parks, unless the State is going to just let them sit, rot and become over grown. With people not able to travel as much in years past, marketing the use of State Parks would seem to be a great oppertunity. With Parks being affordable you would think it would be more of an oppertunity to promote use and make money. I guess the only good thing is that the money lost by the State will hopefully be pushed to the Private Campground Owners. It’s very sad… I’m going to miss the parks!