Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

April 09, 2009

Contact:
Press Contact
Jayne McLaughlin
845.889.4100

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

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

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 Taconic 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 Taconic Region are outlined below.

• Clarence Fahnestock State Park: Taconic Outdoor Education Center will be closed from June through September (coinciding with the construction of a new septic system).
• Clermont State Historic Site: The Visitor Center and historic house tours will be closed for the winter (January to March, 2010), except that group tours will be provided by prior appointment.
• Golf Courses: Dinsmore Golf Course (Mills-Norrie State Park) and James Baird Golf Course will close early (November 15). November golf hours will be shortened.
• Lake Taghkanic State Park: The East Swimming Beach will be closed for 2009. The West Swimming Beach will open late (weekends starting May 23 and daily starting June 27).
• Taconic State Park: Copake Falls campground and cabins will open late (May 22). Some cabins will close early (October 25). Rudd Pond swimming area will be closed on weekdays (open weekends and holidays only).
• Historic Sites Reductions: Shortened seasons and reduced days/hours of operation may occur at John Jay Homestead, Philipse Manor, Olana, and Staatsburgh State Historic Sites.
• Regional Swimming Facilities: All swimming beaches and pools will have reduced days and hours of operation after August 16.

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