In addition to providing Central New York families with affordable, safe recreational opportunities, our state parks and historical sites are also economic development engines in our communities. Complete closure of these facilities will accomplish little in savings and will serve to further stagnate the Upstate economy.

I believe we should look at cost-savings measures and creative solutions, such as public-private partnerships, before considering closure of the sites. It is through these efforts that we can pass a fiscally responsible State Budget that holds the line on taxes, creates jobs, and eliminates waste, while maintaining our valuable state parks that are used by millions of visitors each year.