Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

April 09, 2009

Contact:
Press Contact:
Tim Joseph
607.387.7041

State Parks Announces 2009-10 Operating Schedule Changes for the Finger Lakes Region

Park Patrons Urged to Take Note of Changes in Hours for Beaches, Campgrounds

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation today announced changes in the 2009-10 operating schedules at a number of parks and historic sites in the Finger Lakes Region. The changes reflect a reduction in state spending at parks and historic sites.

"State Parks, like all state agencies, is responding to the current economic realities. We have been charged with making many difficult decisions and the changes we announce today are among them," said Commissioner Carol Ash.

"By concentrating the changes to the shoulder seasons, off-peak hours or facilities where similar services are available nearby, we hope to minimize the impact on our patrons," said Ash.

While approximately 100 parks and historic sites across the state will see some reduction in services, Ash noted that no parks have been closed in full, and the daily entrance fee to the parks is unchanged. In addition, a number of changes coincide with park repair and rehabilitation projects.

Changes for the Finger Lakes Region are outlined below.

• Buttermilk Falls State Park: Swimming area will open four weeks late (June 20).
• Cayuga Lake State Park: Swimming beach will open four weeks late (June 20).
• Fair Haven Beach State Park: Swimming beach will open four weeks late (June 20). The number of fall camping sites will be reduced and winter cabin rentals eliminated.
• Long Point State Park: Swimming will be closed Monday through Friday (open on weekends and holidays only).
• Newtown Battlefield State Park: The campground season will be shortened by three weeks - open late (May 22) and close early (October 12).
• Seneca Lake State Park: The lake swimming beach will be open on weekends and holidays only (closed Monday through Friday). The spray park will remain open seven days / week.
• Taughannock Falls State Park: Camping will open one month late (April 24). The winter sledding area will be closed.
• Golf Courses. Three golf courses - Bonavista, Pinnacle, and Springbrook Greens- will open late (April 18) and close early (October 24).

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