Press Release
March 31, 2016
State Parks Press Office:
Randy Simons | Dan Keefe
(518) 486-1868 | news@parks.ny.gov
State Parks Unveils Designs for $2.2 Million Beach Transformation Project at Chenango Valley State Park
Expanded sand beach area and revitalized recreational opportunities highlight the project
A $2.2 million project that will transform the popular beach area at Chenango Valley State Park was unveiled when Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul and State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey visited the park Wednesday.
The project will expand the sand beach area and create multiple swim areas that provide a range of appropriate depths for all ages. Water circulation and quality will be improved through hydro-engineered technology and aeration which pushes and circulates water from the bottom of the swim area.
"The beach transformation at Chenango Valley State Park is another shining example that Governor Cuomo continues to lead the transformation of our state park system through the NY Parks 2020 plan," said State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey. "State Parks are a gateway to nature and serve as some of the first experiences many have with the great outdoors. We must equip our visitors with the resources and opportunity to escape, explore and experience our magnificent state parks."
The introduction of a new splash pad area adjacent to beach will offer children a new play experience and another alternative to cooling down on a hot summer day. The plan also highlights a new playground, volleyball and basketball courts as part of the newly revitalized games area next door to a previously rehabilitated administration building that now offers rental space with lake views for special occasions. The project is set to begin after the 2017 swim season.
Under Governor Cuomo's leadership, New York State is making a historic commitment to improving and expanding access to outdoor recreation. The Governor's NY Parks 2020 program is a multi-year commitment to leverage $900 million in private and public funding for State Parks from 2011 to 2020. The Governor's 2016-17 Executive Budget proposes $90 million toward this initiative.
Chenango Valley State Park is an ice age wonder. Its two kettle lakes, Lily and Chenango, were created when the last glacier retreated and left behind huge chunks of buried ice which melted to form the lakes and bog. Birdwatchers may glimpse woodpeckers, nut hatches, warblers and thrushes along woodland trails and herons, ducks and kingfishers lakeside. Fishermen will find trout, bass, perch and bullhead in Chenango Lake. Campers can choose from among 184 campsites and 24 cabins and golfers will appreciate the 18-hole Chenango Valley State Park Golf Course.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees 180 state parks and 35 historic sites, which are visited by 65 million people annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.nysparks.com, connect on Facebook, or follow on Twitter.
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