Issues: State Parks

State Senator Adriano Espaillat (D – Manhattan/Bronx) called for an end to the disturbing practice of dumping untreated sewage waste, even in extenuating circumstances. Sen. Espaillat, joined by environmental activists following a major accident at the North River Wastewater Treatment Plant and the ensuing dumping of millions of gallons of untreated sewage into the Hudson River, also called for better notification systems to alert the public in emergency cases where the quality of New York waterways has been compromised.

Thanks Senator Ritchie for “leadership” for New Yorkers looking for relief

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has ordered State Parks, beaches and pools in Central and Northern New York to offer extended hours this weekend to help New Yorkers beat the heat, and he praised Senator Ritchie for staying on top of the issue.

The Governor ordered Parks in the region, including Green Lakes, Verona Beach, Delta Lake and Sandy Island Beach State Parks in the Central Region, and Westcott Beach, Southwick Beach, Pt. au Roche, and Robert Moses, as well as the pool at Keewaydin all to remain open until 8 PM tonight and Saturday.

“Keeping these beaches and pools open for extra hours will mean more New Yorkers will get to enjoy some relief from the sweltering heat at some of the most beautiful spots in the country,” said Senator Ritchie. “I want to thank Gov. Cuomo for his responsiveness and concern for New Yorkers who are all suffering through this heat, and looking forward to a break soon.”

Senator Serrano and his family joined members of the South Bronx community to clean Franz Sigel Park for "It’s My Park Day," sponsored by Friends of Franz Sigel and Joyce Kilmer Parks. For the fourth consecutive year, volunteers, local residents and community leaders teamed up to maintain the well-being of parks across New York City.

The New York State Senate today passed the “Adopt-a-Park” bill, which allows the state and municipalities to work together to develop agreements with volunteers to beautify parklands. Bill S.2686A, sponsored by Senator Mark Grisanti (R, North Buffalo), would assist local governments in continuing to provide communities with safe and enjoyable public spaces by allowing volunteer groups to provide services to enhance and maintain parks.