Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park to Get Facelift

ALBANY, NY (04/23/2008)(readMedia)-- Work is underway on the rehabilitation of Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park’s mammoth outdoor pool facility – one of several improvement projects taking shape under a $132 million plan to jumpstart the revitalization of New York state parks and historic sites.

“A first-class parks system provides families with the opportunity for healthy recreation, protects the state’s unique natural resources, and attracts residents, tourists, and private investment to communities around our state,” said Governor David A. Paterson. “The investment in Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park and others across the state will enable state parks to continue nourishing the quality of life in New York State, while preserving and improving important economic assets.”

“Whether they come to swim in the inviting pool, picnic in the cool shade, or fish on its blue waters, Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park is a popular destination for New Yorkers seeking to escape the summer heat,” said Carol Ash, Commissioner of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “The improvements in store will ensure FDR State Park remains a fun and attractive place for families to come to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.”

In April, Governor Paterson and the Legislature approved a state budget that advances a $132 million capital improvement spending plan for New York’s 178 state parks and 35 historic sites – making the single largest capital investment in the history of the state park system. The infusion will enable the state to begin addressing the extensive capital needs of the parks system – needs that have been estimated at approximately $650 million.

Projects at the top of FDR’s priority list include the $1 million rehabilitation of the pool facility, including the bathhouse and fencing; $300,000 in repairs to roads and parking areas; and a $100,000 replacement roof for the park office and maintenance center.

Senator Vincent Leibell said, “I am pleased to be part of this historic renovation occurring at one of our state’s most renowned and beautiful parks. Our state parks bring much joy, recreation and pleasure to the residents of New York State, and the time has come to invest in their revitalization.”

Senator Suzi Oppenheimer said, “We are all hikers in my family, and are really enthusiastic about the future plans for New York State’s parks.”

Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow said, “I’m glad the state has finally stepped up with a plan to revitalize our state parks. The capital funding is a good first step.”

Assemblyman Adam Bradley said, “I am proud that we were able to come up with some necessary monies to improve the vital infrastructure of our state parks. That effort must continue to ensure that our state parks are able to serve the many people who use them.”

Assemblywoman Sandy Galef said, “New Yorkers are fortunate to have wonderful state parks, but we need to continue to protect them and enhance them so that they will always be available to our residents for recreation and enjoyment.”

Ash noted the pool will remain open to the public during construction, but park visitors may at times find work taking place in the park.

“As the revitalization of FDR State Park gets underway, we ask our patrons to be patient with any inconveniences they may encounter,” Ash said. “Please pardon our appearance, and remember it’s temporary.”

Each year, more than 55 million people visit New York State parks and historic sites, making them a key component of the tourism industry. A 2007 survey indicated that nearly 80 percent of park visitors participate in dining, shopping, or recreational activities outside the park during a park visit.

Located 40 miles from New York City, Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, is one of the system’s most popular parks, drawing over 570,000 visitors annually. In addition to the pool, the park contains Mohansic Lake and Crom Pond, which provide excellent freshwater fishing and boating. The park has numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, softball fields, volleyball courts, basketball courts, a soccer field, and playgrounds. Sports enthusiasts may wish to try their hand at disc golf – a short distance from the picnic areas.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation administers 178 parks and 35 state historic sites. For more information about state parks and historic sites in New York, please visit www.nysparks.com.