ENACTED BUDGET MAKES CRITICAL INVESTMENT IN STATE PARKS
Parks Capital Plan Will Increase Tourism, Enhance Communities

Governor David A. Paterson today announced that the Enacted Budget includes $95 million in funding to implement much-needed improvements at state parks across New York – the largest-ever commitment of resources for parks capital projects in state history.

“For too many years, our parks have been neglected.Making long overdue investments in our state parks will not only preserve New York’s natural resources and protect our environment, but it will also serve as a critical engine of economic growth,” said Governor Paterson. “A first-class parks system will draw residents, tourists, and private investment to communities around our state.”

New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Carol Ash said: “With this historic commitment on behalf of Governor Paterson and the legislature, the revitalization of New York State Parks and Historic Sites is underway. After more than a decade of underinvestment, we now begin to address the extensive capital needs of our parks system – needs that have been estimated at approximately $650 million. The glorious and expansive system of New York State parks offers something for everyone. From camping and fishing to hiking and swimming, we encourage all New Yorkers to visit our many treasures right here in New York State. And in light of climbing gas prices, this coming summer season may be the perfect time to explore a new destination or visit familiar spot. Either way, I am certain our visitors will appreciate the long overdue efforts to improve and enhance these spectacular locations.”

The $95 million investment will fund a variety of capital projects at state parks in every region of New York. Additionally, other projects that will be implemented through this initiative include improvements at Department of Environmental Conservation campgrounds and at the State Fairgrounds in Syracuse.

Also included in the bill accompanying the parks capital program in the Enacted Budget were a number of environmental and transportation initiatives. They include:

Environment

Environmental Protection Fund (EPF): The EPF finances key environmental protection programs including land acquisition, waterfront revitalization, preservation of municipal parks and recycling programs. In 2008-09, EPF spending will total $255 million, an increase of $5 million. Categories of spending include solid waste ($26.6 million); Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation ($70.2 million) and Open Space ($158.2 million).This increase also will support $2 million for a community college training initiative for solar energy equipment installation.

Transportation

CHIPS Funding: To continue efforts to maintain and upgrade local road systems, the Enacted Budget provides $363.1 million in Consolidated Highway Improvement Program (“CHIPS”) aid to municipalities – an increase of $51 million from 2007-08.

Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: To help mitigate the potential negative impact of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative – a federal mandate which goes into effect June 2009 – the Department of Motor Vehicles will begin offering an Enhanced Driver’s License to U.S. citizens at an additional cost of $30. The WHTI-compliant license will permit U.S. citizens from New York to return to the U.S. via land and sea borders without a passport or birth certificate.