Senator Thomas Announces Park Enhancements Within the District

Jerry Barmash

April 30, 2019

(Garden City, NY) – State parks on Long Island will receive much-needed renovations thanks to over $20 million in capital funding secured in this year’s state budget. Revitalization projects at Bethpage State Park and Hempstead Lake State Park are set to be completed later this year.

Two million dollars are being allocated towards upgrading septic systems in parks, which will protect water quality and cut operating costs.

The aging restrooms at the Hempstead Lake State Park will get a $1 million upgrade.

An additional $500,000 is being set aside for Bethpage State Park, host of the 2019 PGA Championship, to enhance its golf courses.  

“State parks are an important asset to our community. Everyone deserves to experience these gems of nature. This funding represents an investment in spaces that will be enjoyed for generations to come,” Senator Kevin Thomas said.

On May 4, state parks and historic sites across New York will celebrate I Love My Park Day with cleanup, improvement, and beautification events. Hempstead Lake State Park will host a volunteer clean-up project on the shoreline of the North East Pond.