Issues: Recreation and Tourism

Nearly 300 park goers from local communities joined State Senator Brian X. Foley (D – Blue Point) at a rally to support Long Island’s parks. The rally came in response to Gov. Paterson’s proposed cuts targeting state parks in order to fix the budget deficit.

Albany, N.Y., February 19—A plan released earlier today by New York Governor David Paterson to close more than 50 state parks and historic sites would impact several regional parks, State Senator George Winner (R-C-I, Elmira) said.

The parks in Winner’s legislative district that would face closure or service reductions under the Paterson plan are the Newtown Battlefield State Park , Chemung County (full closure); Buttermilk Falls State Park, Tompkins County (closure of public swimming area); and Stony Brook State Park, Steuben County (closure of public swimming area).

Winner released the following statement:

“Every legislator recognizes the enormous fiscal challenge facing New York State and the consequences for the local communities we represent.

GRIFFO SAYS THAT SNOW JOB IS UNACCEPTABLE

State Senator Joseph A. Griffo (R-IP-C, Rome) today condemned the Governor’s Budget proposal to “sweep” $5 million dollars from the snowmobile trail development and maintenance fund into the general fund over the next several years. 

For the thousands of Upstate New Yorkers who enjoy our region’s snowmobile trails, it’s déjà vu all over again.

I wish to commend the Governor on his selection of an operator for Aqueduct; the development is of major importance to the thoroughbred industry in New York and to the State as a whole, especially during our current economic and budget crises.  The project will provide a significant economic engine for the future, and it will supply many much-needed jobs and stimulate our economy.