More people are visiting state parks. State park attendance increased 5% from 2014 to 2015 bringing the estimated number of visits to 65.3 million in 2015. The state has invested in our parks for the past three years to improve everything from, entrances, barbecue pits, campground sites, playground equipment and bathroom facilities. For each $1 invested in parks, there is a cost benefit to the economy of $5. State Parks provide families with an opportunity to cool down, enjoy a scenic view by a lake or river, go for a hike, have a picnic, or even learn about local history. In total, there are 95 state park and historic sites.

Day, Annual and Multi-year passes available

Anyone can visit a state park and pay the daily vehicle use fee which ranges from $6-$10. Annual park passes are available, which can save residents some money. The Empire Passport is $65 per year. The pass allows unlimited day use vehicle entry to most state parks and recreation facilities. It is worth the investment if parks are visited more than 8 times during the year. There are also discounts and free passes available. It’s also possible to purchase a vehicle pass for multiple years through the Empire Passport application. For details visit http://parks.ny.gov/admission/empire-passport/default.aspx.

Active Duty and Families Receive Access for Free

Under the Patriot Plan Benefit, a service member who is currently serving on active duty in support of the war on terrorism is eligible for one free Empire Passport for use by his or her immediate family during deployment and/or his or her own use when returning home. This is also available to those in the New York National Guard. In order to receive this pass, families can complete an ordinary Empire Passport application, attach a copy of the military orders that show the soldier has been called to active duty and mail it to Empire Passport, Albany, NY 12238. Recipients must reapply each year. Park passes are mailed to those who qualify.

Free Senior Access During Weekdays

Seniors can receive free vehicle entry into state parks on non-holiday weekdays. All that is needed is a New York state driver’s license or non-driver state ID. Residents can show an ID to the admission gate, according to the New York State Parks website. While most parks do participate, there are some exceptions so it’s best to call ahead.

Access Pass for Disabled Residents

The Access Pass permits New York State residents with certain disabilities free or discounted use of state parks, historic sites and recreational facilities. There are strict guidelines which are listed on the application and a physician must certify the application. To download an application, visit http://nysparks.com/admission/access-pass/default.aspx. Disabled veterans may receive discounted use of state parks through the Lifetime Liberty Pass. This application may be viewed at http://parks.ny.gov/admission/lifetime-liberty-pass.aspx. For information, call 518-474-2324.

Canal Sweep April 22-24

The 11th annual Canal Clean Sweep is scheduled for April 22 through April 24. Many cleanup events are scheduled throughout the Central New York region during these days, along the canal. The State’s Parks and Trails has a website specifically for this event that allows an organizer to register a cleanup event at state or local parks along the Canal and volunteers can register to help at http://www.ptny.org/events/canal-clean-sweep or call (518) 434-1583.

Park Clean Up Day May 7

Quickly approaching is the I Love My Park Day volunteer cleanup effort on May 7. To become involved with this effort at a park nearby, register at www.ptny.org/ilovemypark/index.shtml or call (518) 434-1583.

If you have any questions or comments regarding these or other state issues, please contact me. My office can be reached by mail at 200 North Second Street, Fulton, New York 13069, by email at barclaw@assembly.state.ny.us, or by calling (315) 598-5185. You also can find me, Assemblyman Barclay, on Facebook.