Park system welcomed 65 million visitors in 2015, 3 million more visitors than 2014
“I Love My Park Day” will prepare parks for another successful season
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced New York state parks, historic sites and campgrounds hosted another successful season, with 65.3 million estimated visits in 2015. Park attendance increased five percent from 2014 to 2015, and nearly 14 percent since the Governor took office in 2011.
“More and more people are discovering that New York’s state parks are home to unparalleled natural beauty and a wealth of recreational activities,” Governor Cuomo said. “These increased attendance numbers are proof that this administration’s efforts to invest in and promote New York’s natural assets have been a success. I encourage New Yorkers and visitors alike to see for themselves all that our state’s parks have to offer.”
Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted the revitalization of the state park system at Chenango Valley State Park in the Southern Tier, where she encouraged New Yorkers to help their parks prepare for another successful season by taking part in the statewide “I Love My Park Day” volunteer cleanup effort on May 7.
“More and more visitors have been coming to enjoy our parks and historic sites over the last five years, reflecting Governor Cuomo’s strong efforts to improve and promote New York State Parks,” Lieutenant Governor Hochul said. “I Love My Park Day is the perfect opportunity for those who enjoy the parks to demonstrate just how much they care for these special places and I encourage all New Yorkers to volunteer this year at their favorite park or visit a new public land in their area.”
Park attendance was boosted by a variety of factors, including the return of fireworks to Jones Beach State Park after a five-year absence; national exposure for Letchworth and Watkins Glen State Parks, which were ranked first and third best state parks in the nation by USA Today; improvements to the newly designated Buffalo Harbor State Park on the city’s waterfront, and favorable weather throughout the summer and late into the fall.
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