North Country Gazette



Roosevelt State Park Getting Facelift

Posted on Wednesday, 23 of April , 2008 at 7:12 pm

YORKTOWN HEIGHTS—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.

“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.   4-23-08

Category: Consumers, Environment, Family, Good News, Government, New York State, Recreation

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