State Council of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation

2009 Annual Report Cover: State Historic Park Photo: David Rocco

Wellesley Island

TableLetter of fromContents the Chair 1 State Council of Parks Members 3 NYS Parks and Historic Sites Overview 5 Priorities for 2010 7 2010-11 FY Budget Recommendations 9 Annual Highlights 13 State Board for Historic Preservation 20 Statewide Initiatives 21 Appendix 22

2009 Annual Report David A. Paterson Governor Carol Ash Commissioner New York State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Lucy R. Waletzky, M.D. State Council Chair

The Honorable David Paterson Executive Chamber December 15, 2009 Albany, NY 12224 Dear Governor Paterson,

The State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is pleased to submit its 2009 Annual Report. This report highlights the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation’s achievements during 2009, and sets forth recommendations for New York’s State Parks and His- toric Sites for the coming year.

The New York State Park System is at a critical crossroads. Over the past two years, OPRHP has absorbed five rounds of budget cuts totaling 25 percent of the agency’s operating budget. The agency’s summer workforce has been reduced by 1,000 permanent and seasonal workers. Bud- gets for equipment, supplies, and service contracts have been deeply cut. As a result, in 2009 OPRHP implemented service reductions at 100 State Parks and Historic Sites (shortened seasons, days, and hours of operation, and reduced programming).

The State Parks budget has been stretched to the breaking point. If directed to absorb additional budget cuts next year, OPHRP will have no option but to begin closing State Parks and Historic Sites. Closing parks would be a terrible decision that would have a negative impact on New York’s economy and on the quality of life:

• A recent study documented that New York’s State Park System generates $1.9 billion in economic activity every year – five times the agency’s total annual budget. Closing State Parks will hurt local tourism industries and create negative economic impacts much greater than the modest savings to the state budget.

• State Parks generate state revenue (entrance fees, camping fees, picnic shelter rentals, etc.). Park revenues account for a third of OPRHP’s operating budget. When a park is closed to reduce costs, the agency also loses revenue. Every $1 million “saved” through park closings generates only $650,000 in net budget savings.

• Visitation to the State Park System is up – more than 55 million residents and tourists visited State Parks in 2009. At a time when many New York families are struggling due to the eco- nomic downturn, our State Parks provide affordable, close-to-home recreational and vacation opportunities.

We urge you to avoid further cuts to OPRHP’s operating budget that will lead to park closings and significant service reductions.

The State Council also respectfully requests that New York State provide $100 million in FY2010-11 to continue the third year of the State Parks Capital Initiative. Over the past two years, OPRHP has invested $200 million to revitalize the parks, which are suffering from a backlog of more than $700 million of capital rehabilitation needs. Many important capital projects have been completed, and thousands of private sector construction and engineering jobs have been created. Due to the nature of parks capital projects, the vast majority have been undertaken by small and mid-sized local construction firms, creating a greatly-needed economic stimulus for construction contractors in local communities across the state. However, much more remains to be done to provide safe and enjoyable park facilities and to repair failing roadways and water, sewer, and electrical infrastructure through the park system.

The Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie – the 179th State Park – is a dramatic illustra- tion of the ability of parks capital investments to lead economic development in local com- munities. In its first two months of operation, the Walkway has attracted more than 400,000 visitors – greatly exceeding projections of anticipated annual attendance. During construction the Walkway generated hundreds of engineering and construction jobs, and now that it’s open to the public, spending by tourists and visitors will create many permanent jobs in the Hudson Valley and make neighboring Poughkeepsie a more vibrant community which is a better place to live, work, and raise families.

The State Council is doing its part. Since January, 2007, more than $12 million in private contri- butions have been secured to support New York’s State Parks and Historic Sites. Regional Parks Commission members continue to expand private fundraising efforts. However, private support cannot replace the state’s responsibility to provide the operations and capital funding needed to maintain our State Parks, which are one of New York’s great assets.

We admire your efforts as our Governor to grapple with the difficult financial issues facing the state, but we urge you to spare the park system from further operating cuts and we ask that you continue our State Parks Capital Initiative in the long-term interest of the state economy, resi- dents, and tourists who delight in the parks’ magnificent natural, historic, and cultural resources.

We would be greatly appreciative of the opportunity to meet with you to further discuss the is- sues and recommendations presented in this annual report. Sincerely,

Lucy Rockefeller Waletzky, M.D., Chair

1 The State Council of Parks has adopted four priority initiatives for 2010:

1. Parks Operations Funding. The State Council and Regional Commission members will advocate for adequate operational funding for the State Parks System to prevent park closings and enable all New York residents and tourists to enjoy safe, clean, and diverse recreational and educational experiences at New York’s 214 State Parks and Historic Sites.

2. State Parks Revitalization Program. The State Council strongly supports the inclusion of $100 million in capital funding in the FY2010-11 State Budget, to advance the third year of the State Parks Revitalization Initiative. This $100 million investment is urgently needed to maintain the state’s commitment to addressing the $700 million backlog of capital improvements needed across the State Parks System.

3. Private Fundraising Campaign. During 2010 the State Council will continue to pursue private funding from individuals, corporations, and foundations – building upon the $12 million in private support that has been raised since January, 2007 to support the State Park System.

4. Partnerships with Friends Groups. The State Council and Regional Commis- sions will continue to help establish new “Friends Groups” – eight new organizations were started in 2009 – and to strengthen collaboration with Friends Groups to lever- age volunteer efforts and increase private support for State Parks and Historic Sites.

2

State Council of Parks and Regional Park Commissions he State Council of Parks, Rec- deem appropriate; c) and act as reation and Historic Preservation a central advisory agency on all – usually known simply as the matters affecting parks, recre- State Council of Parks T“State Council of Parks” – is a ation and historic preservation. Lucy Waletzky, 14-member body established by Chair and Taconic Commission Article 5 of the state Parks, Rec- The eleven Regional Parks Com- reation and Historic Preservation missions, created by Article 7 Dalton Burgett, Law (PRHPL). The State Council of PRHPL, represent each of the Allegany Commission is comprised of the chairs of state parks regions, with the ex- Edward Audi, the eleven Regional Park Com- ception of the Palisades (which Central Commission missions, the chair of the State is represented by the Palisades Board for Historic Preservation, Interstate Park Commission) David Banfield, and the Commissioners of the and the Adirondack & Catskill Commission Park Region (which is under the Office of Parks, Recreation and Peter Humphrey, Historic Preservation and the jurisdiction of the Department Genesee Commission Department of Environmental of Environmental Conservation). Conservation. Regional Commission members Herbert Balin, must be residents of the state Commission As defined in PRHPL Section and are appointed to seven Janet Felleman, 5.09, the State Council’s pow- year terms by the Governor and New York City Commission ers and duties are to: a) review confirmed by the Senate, and the policy, budget and statewide serve without compensation. Jean Knox, plans of the Office of Parks, Regional Commissions serve as Niagara Frontier Commission Recreation and Historic Preser- a central advisory body on all Sam Pryor, vation, and make appropriate matters affecting parks, recre- Palisades Commission recommendations regarding ation, and historic preservation their amendment or adoption; within their respective regions, Heather Mabee, b) submit reports to the Gov- with particular focus on the op- Saratoga-Capital District Commission ernor, not less than once each erations of the state parks and historic sites. The Commissions Harold Johnson II, year, concerning progress in the Thousand Islands Commission area of state parks, recreation are also charged with reviewing and historic preservation, in- and approving the region’s an- Robert MacKay, cluding recommendations for nual budget request prior to its State Board for Historic Preservation the future, and covering such submission to the Commissioner other matters as the council may of State Parks.

2009 Annual Report 3

Overview

4 Minnewaska State Park Preserve

Hudson River Islands State Park

Newhe State ParkYork System 1 isState one of New Parks York’s great- &Historicresources, OPRHP is responsibleSites forOverview operating an est treasures. In the 124 years since the creation in extensive network of public recreational facilities 1885 of Niagara Reservation State Park – the oldest that includes 5,000 buildings, 28 golf courses, 53 T state park in the nation – the system has grown to swimming pools, 76 beaches, 27 marinas, 40 boat 214 State Parks and Historic Sites encompassing launching sites, 18 nature centers, 817 cabins, 8,355 330,000 acres of protected lands and waters. New campsites, more than 1,350 miles of trails, exten- York’s Parks and Historic Sites provide affordable sive utility systems, 106 dams, hundreds of miles of outdoor recreation and education opportunities to roads, and 604 bridges. more than 55 million visitors each year. These facili- ties contribute to the economic vitality and quality of New York’s State Park System has long been rec- life of local communities and directly support New ognized as one of the best and most diverse in the York’s tourism industry. Parks also provide a place nation. Among the fifty states, we rank first in the for families and children to recreate and exercise, number of operating facilities and first in the total promoting healthy lifestyles and helping combat number of campsites. We are fifth in total acreage childhood obesity. and third in total annual visitation. Attendance at Niagara Falls State Park is greater than that of Grand The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preser- Canyon and Yosemite National Parks combined, and vation (OPRHP) is responsible for the operation and more than twice as many people visit Jones Beach stewardship of the State Park System, as well as each year than visit Yellowstone. Niagara Falls is the advancing a statewide parks, historic preservation, oldest state park in the nation and Washington’s and open space mission. The agency is staffed by Headquarters is the first property acquired with pub- 2,100 permanent employees and more than 4,000 lic funds for the express purpose of historic preserva- seasonal positions, with an “all funds” operating tion and patriotic visitation. and capital budget of approximately $330 million 1 The term “state park system” as used in this report refers to (FY2009-10 appropriations). Drawing upon these New York’s 179 state parks and 35 state historic sites.

2009 Annual Report 5

Priorities

6 Clarence Fahnestock State Park

Selkirk Shores State Park Robert H. Treman State Park

State Council of Parks Priorities

he State Council of Parks has identified four priorities for 2010:

T1. Parks Operations Funding. 3. Private Fundraising The State Council and Regional Commission Campaign. members will advocate for adequate operational During 2010 the State funding for the State Park System to prevent park Council will continue to pursue private funding closings and enable all New York residents and from individuals, corporations, and foundations tourists to enjoy safe, clean, and diverse – building upon the $12 million in private sup- recreational and educational experiences at port that has been raised since January, 2007 to New York’s 214 State Parks and Historic Sites. support the park system.

2.State Parks Revitalization Program. 4. Partnerships with Friends Groups. The State Council respectfully requests the The State Council and Regional Commissions will inclusion of $100 million in capital funding in the continue to help establish new “Friends Groups” FY2010-11 State Budget, to advance the third – eight new organizations were started in 2009 year of the State Parks Revitalization Initiative. – and to strengthen collaboration with Friends This $100 million investment is urgently needed Groups to leverage volunteer efforts and increase to address the $700 million backlog of private support for State Parks and Historic Sites. capital improvements needed across the State Park System.

2009 Annual Report 7

Budget

8 Minnewaska State Park Preserve

State Parks Operating Budget PRHP is a “direct operations” agency. Eighty-five agency’s total annual budget. Closing State percent (85%) of the agency’s operating budget Parks will hurt local tourism industries and cre- O goes to pay the direct costs – including perma- ate negative economic impacts much greater nent and seasonal staff, equipment, utilities, and than the modest savings to the state budget. similar expenses – incurred in operating New York’s 214 State Parks and Historic Sites. • State Parks generate state revenue (en- trance fees, camping fees, picnic shelter rent- The New York State Park System is at a critical als, etc.). Park revenues account for a third of crossroads. Over the past two years, OPRHP’s OPRHP’s operating budget. When a park is operating budget has absorbed five rounds of closed to reduce costs, the agency also loses budget cuts totaling 25 percent of the agency’s revenue. Every $1 million “saved” through operating budget. OPRHP’s summer workforce park closings generates only $650,000 in net has been reduced by 1,000 permanent and sea- budget savings. sonal workers. Budgets for equipment, supplies, and service contracts have been deeply cut. As • Visitation to the State Park System is up – a result, in 2009 OPRHP implemented service more than 55 million residents and tourists reductions at 100 State Parks and Historic Sites visited State Parks in 2009. At a time when (shortened seasons, days, and hours of opera- many New York families are struggling due tion, and reduced programming). to the economic downturn, our State Parks provide affordable, close-to-home recreational The State Parks budget has been stretched to the and vacation opportunities. breaking point. If directed to absorb additional budget cuts next year, OPHRP will have no op- tion but to begin closing State Parks and Historic FY2010-11 Operating Budget Recommen- Sites. The State Council recognizes the diffi- dation: The State Council urges the Governor cult financial challenges facing New York State. and the Legislature to avoid any further cuts Nonetheless, closing State Parks would be bad to OPRHP’s operating budget. The agency economic and public policy: has already absorbed a 25 percent budget cut. Further cuts will result in closing State • A recent study documented that New York’s Parks and Historic Sites – something that State Park System generates $1.9 billion in New York has never done before in the economic activity each year– five times the 125-year history of the State Park System.

2009 Annual Report 9 Chittenango Falls State Park

Budget

10 Sterling Forest State Park

uring 2007, OPRHP initiatedState a comprehensive Parks as- Capital$200 million toBudget begin the effort of revitalizing the Park sessment of the agency’s capital rehabilitation needs, System. D developing a detailed list of priority projects at New York’s 214 State Parks and Historic Sites. The review OPRHP has aggressively and efficiently put this funding documented a backlog of more than $700 million to work. The agency has completed capital construc- in pressing capital investment project needs. New tion projects at more than 100 State Parks and Historic York’s State Parks and Historic Sites are suffering from Sites across the state. A number of completed projects decades of underinvestment, with the result that too are featured in the “2009 Highlights” section of this many of our facilities are deteriorated and in dire need report. These projects have created thousands of engi- of rehabilitation. neering and construction jobs in communities across the state. Due to the nature of parks capital projects, the Many parks have significant health and safety concerns vast majority have been undertaken by small and mid- that require attention, such as outdated water supply sized local construction firms, creating a greatly-needed systems, aging wastewater treatment plants that don’t economic stimulus for construction contractors. meet current standards, electrical systems that do not meet code, landfills that although inactive were never OPRHP has fully obligated the capital funds provided to closed to state standards, underground petroleum stor- the agency in the 2008-09 and 2009-10 state budgets. age tanks that don’t meet state regulations, and dams A third installment of capital funds is needed to main- that require rehabilitation. tain momentum on the State Parks Capital Initiative. Many of our park buildings and infrastructure – visitor FY2010-11 Capital Budget Recommendation: centers, recreational facilities, cabins, campgrounds, The State Council respectfully requests that swimming pools, nature centers, and historic buildings Governor Paterson and the State Legislature – are aging and deteriorating, diminishing the outdoor provide $100 million in capital funding in experience for the more than 55 million people that OPRHP’s FY2010-11 budget to continue the third come to our State Parks every year. Major invest- year of the State Parks Capital Initiative. Follow- ments are needed to repair basic infrastructure such ing the practice of the last two years, the Capital as roofs, heating and plumbing systems, park offices, Initiative can be advanced through a combina- picnic shelters, recreation fields, bathrooms, roads, tion of bonded funds, other sources of state, parking areas, and maintenance centers. There is also federal and private support, and state parks a significant capital backlog at our Historic Sites, and revenues (the State Parks Infrastructure Fund) – energy-efficiency investments are needed in many ag- meaning that no state General Fund money is ing buildings. needed for the capital program. This investment In recognition of the deteriorated condition of our State will enable OPRHP to address a number of press- Parks and Historic Sites, over the past two years the ing health and safety concerns in the State Parks Governor and the Legislature have funded a new State and Historic Sites. It will also directly support eco- Parks Capital Initiative. This program, funded through nomic development by strengthening recreation a combination of parks revenues, state bonded fund- and cultural tourism, which is one of the state’s ing, and other public and private support, has provided largest industries. 2009 Annual Report 11 (Bathhouse)

Annual Highlights

12 Annual Highlights

Grafton Lakes State Park

he mission of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) is to provide safe and enjoyable recreation and interpretation opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors and to be responsible stewards of our valuable natural, historic, and cultural resources. Below is a short T sampling of highlights and successes achieved over the past year in each of the eleven OPRHP regions.

Allegany Region • Master Planning. The agency initiated the development of comprehensive Master Plans • Allegany State Park. During 2009, OPRHP to guide future development and public uses made a number of improvements to Allegany at two facilities: (final plan State Park including: continued renovation of anticipated by December 2009) and Allegany the historic Regional Administration building – State Park (final plan scheduled for 2010). a central location for welcoming park visitors ($700,000); completion of a new restroom and shower facility at the Cain Hollow campground Central Region ($375,000); rehabilitation of public rental cabins in the Congdon area; remediation and closure • Green Lakes State Park. On June 12, 2009 to state standards of the former Cricks Run OPRHP reopened and dedicated the new landfill ($1.3 million); resurfacing 24 lane miles Green Lakes Bathhouse, located in the center of deteriorated park roadways ($1.8 million); of the park’s popular public swimming beach. repair of two “yellow-flagged” bridges; and re- The new bathhouse replaced a deteriorated moval of defunct buildings at the Red House en- 1960s era structure, providing a modern, trance to the park. These projects were funded accessible, and “green” facility to serve the through the State Parks Capital Initiative. public’s needs. This $2.4 million project was funded through OPRHP’s capital budget. In • Midway State Park. The park’s drinking water addition, agency officials and staff thanked the system was Juicy Juice Corporation for its $350,000 dona- upgraded and tion for playground improvements at various improvements State Parks, including a new playground at were made to the Green Lakes beach area. The agency also several facilities continues to rehabilitate the historic “Old Ad- in this historic ministration Building” located near the beach, theme park, which is being opened for public events. located on the shoreline of • Chenango Valley State Park. Page Brook, Chautauqua Midway State Park which runs through the park, has experienced Lake. The $1 million cost of these projects was severe funded through the State Parks Capital Initiative. flooding and erosion • . The agency over the reconstructed the park’s aging sewage treatment past several system ($1 million), addressing a pressing years. With health and safety issue. Design will soon begin the assis- for replacement of a deteriorated 1,200-foot tance of underground culvert that drains through the the Federal park. Emergency Chenango Valley State Park

2009 Annual Report 13 Management Agency and the State Emergency the waterfront area. Additionally, the historic Management Office, a portion of the creek bank Civilian Conservation Corps picnic shelter is was stabilized in 2008, protecting the Chipmunk being repaired and rehabilitated. Bluff camp loop from further erosion. OPRHP has initiated a major project to relocate campsites • Alan Treman State Marine Park. OPRHP is near Page Brook to other areas within the park replacing the marina’s aging electrical system not subject to flood hazards. This $1.1 million in this popular waterfront park on Cayuga project will be complete in the spring of 2010 Lake in Ithaca. The park’s primary power line and will include improvements to the existing and transformer equipment is being replaced, water and electric system, a new shower build- and electric service upgrades are being made ing, and new campsites in the Sunrise camp in the marina area. loop. Additional work includes electrical system and accessibility improvements to other existing • State Historic Site. campground loops. Sonnenberg, located in Canandaigua and op- erated by a non-profit organization, is one of • Betty & Wilbur Davis State Park. Thanks to the nation’s most extensively preserved coun- an additional try estates from the Victorian era. OPHRP has generous private initiated a $3.2 million rehabilitation project gift of land and that includes reconstruction of the mansion’s capital fund- ing from Mr. and Mrs. Davis, OPRHP complet- ed construction of a new picnic pavilion, public Betty and Wilbur Davis State Park restroom, play area, and plantings at this Cooperstown area park.

• Central Region Infrastructure Improve- ments. Many of the parks in the Central Region Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park are serviced by original utility systems installed in the first half of the 20th century. The region veranda and several architectural features in has advanced a number of projects to replace the historic gardens. and upgrade aging and failing infrastructure. At Green Lakes State Park, the agency installed a • . OPRHP continues to new $700,000 drinking water main tying into make progress in opening sections of this the county municipal water supply. Drinking recreational rail-trail that when completed will water system improvements are also planned at run from Watkins Glen to Mark Twain State Selkirk Shores State Park. A badly failing seawall Park near Horseheads. In 2009, the agency was replaced at , and completed construction of a new bridge at deteriorated roads and parking areas are being Johnson Hollow. resurfaced at Clark Reservation. At Chenango Valley State Park, the electrical system is being • Buttermilk Falls State Park. With the help upgraded, and a new drinking water system is of federal stimulus funds for youth employ- currently under design for construction in 2010. ment, a new overlook was constructed at the top of Buttermilk Falls. The youth crew Finger Lakes Region carried tons of stone, sand, and cement up 116 steps along the side of the gorge. A Cub • . At Cayuga Lake, Scout Troop and several local high school ath- OPRHP is constructing new accessible paths in lete teams pitched in to complete the project.

2009 Annual Report 14 Genesee Region improvements to this facility with the official opening of the Athletic • . OPRHP is making Field Complex. The new 50-acre complex, major investments to replace aging infrastruc- located in an underserved community, con- ture in Letchworth. At the Highbanks Camp- sists of eight new synthetic turf soccer fields ground area, new drinking water lines were varying in size to accommodate all divisions of installed, and contractors have started con- youth groups, along with two new synthetic struction to replace failing septic systems at turf baseball fields. This $9 million project all nine restrooms in the campground. These was funded primarily by a state Senate legisla- projects will be completed prior to the 2010 tive item, with additional funds from OPRHP’s camping season. capital budget.

• . In July, Genesee • – Open Golf Championship. Bethpage State Park host- ed the 2009 United States Open Championship on the Black Course from June 15th to June 21st. Approximately 300,000 golf enthusiasts traveled to Bethpage to view the world’s premier golfers. Millions more viewed 30 hours of live television coverage. provided specta- tor parking. The event generated an estimated $75 million dollar economic impact to the metro-

Hamlin Beach State Park Regional Chair Peter Humphrey, State Council of Parks Chair Lucy Waletzky, and Commis- sioner Carol Ash celebrated the opening of a new park office and police station at Hamlin Beach. The new park office, which replaces a highly-deteriorated building, features energy efficient design and construction as well as interpretive displays, enhanced communica- tions and security features, and a conference Bethpage State Park - Black Course room which is available for public meetings and programs. politan New York area. Despite heavy rains during the tournament week, the U.S. Open Champion- • Lakeside Beach State Park. The region ship was a tremendous success. installed its first “frisbee” Disc at Lakeside Beach located on . • Jones Beach State Park. In 2009 OPRHP Feedback from park visitors has been very initiated a major rehabilitation of the iconic positive and the agency is considering instal- Jones Beach water tower, which had deterio- lation of additional courses and opportunities rated to the point where cracks appeared on to hold organized disc golf tournaments. its exterior facing. This historic landmark was constructed in 1929 and holds a steel cylinder Long Island Region containing 316,000 gallons of fresh water, drawn from wells. The tower supplies water • Brentwood State Park. On September 25, to facilities throughout the park including 2009, Commissioner Carol Ash, state legis- restrooms, swimming pools, drinking water lators, and community representatives an- fountains, park buildings, and the United nounced the completion of the first phase of States Coast Guard Station located on the

2009 Annual Report 15 property. During construction, damage to the trance traffic circle was reconstructed, with tower’s internal steel support structure was investments exceeding $6 million funded from found to be significantly worse than originally the State Parks Capital Initiative. In addition, anticipated. This $6 million project will fully the “Totally Kid Carousel” was refurbished restore the water tower and safeguard Jones and reinstalled in the park in partnership with Beach’s public water supply system. New York City.

• Caleb Smith State Park Preserve. Over the • Roberto Clemente State Park Roberto Cle- past three years, the Nature Museum at Caleb mente, which welcomes 1.2 million visitors Smith has been renovated. The museum now annually, was opened in 1973. The park’s has interactive environmental exhibits, a new facilities are showing their age. OPRHP has classroom for school groups, and displays received $20 million from the New York City of local plants and wildlife. There are also a Van Cortland Park water treatment facility number of exhibits highlighting the history mitigation fund for improvements to Roberto of the property dating back to 1665. The Clemente. OPRHP is using this funding to cost of this project totaled $350,000. Fund- reconstruct the park’s popular aquatics com- ing was provided through State Senate and plex including refurbishing the main pool and Assembly Legislative items, private donations dive tank, creating a new spray area with made to the Friends of Caleb Smith State Park landscaping and shade, and rehabilitating visi- Preserve, and OPRHP’s capital budget. tor locker rooms. These projects are currently under construction for completion in 2010. • Youth Health and Fitness Program. Long Is- land State Parks partnered with Emblem Health to • . OPRHP is install- provide free summer youth programs to promote ing a new play area at East River, located in healthy and fit lifestyles and to reduce childhood Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The play area will obesity. Emblem Health donated $7,500 to sup- make full use of the site’s industrial history port the program and their employees managed as a waterfront rail road yard and feature a and administered the program. The program large wooden train along the original railroad included a half-mile summer run for children ages tracks. The play area, which will be com- 5-11 and a youth basketball clinic. Emblem Health pleted this coming spring, is funded through arranged for basketball legend Earl “The Pearl” contributions from the Juicy Juice Corporation Monroe to provide an exhibition with the Hofstra and other private sources. University basketball team. Niagara Frontier Region New York City Region

• . During 2009, OPRHP made major investments to infrastructure re- habilitation at Riverbank State Park, which hosts more than 2.5 mil- lion visitors annually. Aging roofs Old State Historic Site and HVAC • / Old Fort Niagara systems State Historic Site. Old Fort Niagara, which Riverbank State Park (which features original structures dating from 1726 dated to the original construction of the park to 1871, was an important military fortifica- in the 1980s) were renovated, and the en- tion due to its strategic location where the

2009 Annual Report 16 flows into Lake Ontario. In July, Old Fort Niagara State Historic Site and Fort Niagara State Park hosted a major reenact- ment celebrating the 250th anniversary of the French and Indian War. The three-day event, organized by the Friends of Old Fort Niagara and agency staff, drew 40,000 visitors. OPRHP is also replacing five roofs on historic buildings using Niagara Greenway funding.

• . OPRHP completed renovations to the historic bathhouse at Evangola, with its popular swimming beach on Lake Erie. The agency also invested in im- provements to the park’s roadways and park- Palisades Region ing areas. • Bear Mountain State Park. OPRHP is com- pletely renovating the Queensboro Water • Darwin Martin House. This historic house Treatment Plant that provides drinking water in Buffalo, designed and built in 1903-05 and to the entire Bear Mountain State Park com- considered one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s signa- plex including the picnic area, inn, park of- ture works, fices, lodges, pool, zoo, and other recreational is owned by facilities. The existing water supply system, New York which serves 1.5 million visitors annually, is State and more than 50-years-old. This $2.1 million operated by health and safety project is funded through the Mar- the State Parks Capital Initiative. tin House Restoration • Harriman State Park. The agency has initi- Corpora- ated a $2.3 million project to rehabilitate the tion, a non- Darwin Martin House sewage collection system and waste water profit friends group. Over the past 15 years, treatment plant that services the Lake Welch the Corporation has raised tens of millions of swimming area and Beaver Pond campground. dollars of public and private support to restore The old sewage treatment system, which dis- the house. In 2009, the Corporation opened charges to Lake Welch, does not meet current the new state-of-the-art Eleanor and Wilson state health and safety standards. This project Greatbatch Visitor Center to orient visitors is critical to protect water quality and meet the and interpret Wright’s work. needs of over half a million visitors a year that enjoy the beaches at Lake Welch. The project • Niagara Falls – NorthStar Underground is funded by New York’s Clean Water Program Railroad Interpretive Site. OPRHP is sup- administered by the state Environmental Facili- porting a partnership effort, led by the City ties Corporation. of Niagara Falls, to recognize and interpret • Washington’s Headquarters State Historic the City’s important role in our nation’s Un- Site. OPRHP is replacing the HVAC system for derground Railroad story. The City is develop- Washington’s Headquarters Museum Building ing plans to rehabilitate a portion of a vacant and the Hasbrouck House ($855,000). The building, adjacent to the Niagara River Gorge, old, existing system is failing, and the new sys- to establish the NorthStar Interpretive Site. tem incorporates energy efficiency technolo- Plans are also being made to commemorate gies. This project is an important commitment Niagara Falls State Park’s 125th anniversary to preserving the nation’s first publicly-owned in 2010. historic site.

2009 Annual Report 17

Saratoga-Capital Region Taconic Region

• Crailo State Historic • Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Site. In honor of Park. This unique new State Park was dedicated the 400th anniversa- as a Quadricentennial Legacy project by Governor ry of Henry Hudson’s David Pat- voyage of discovery, erson and OPRHP completed opened to significant improve- the public ments to Crailo in Octo- State Historic Site, a ber, 2009. house museum lo- Soaring cated in Rensselaer 212 feet devoted to the above the Hudson Colonial Dutch PHOTO: David Rocco River, the period. With help Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park from many public 1.28-mile and private partner organizations, OPRHP former Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge is installed new interactive exhibits and expanded the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world outreach and educational programming. The and will connect recreational rail-trails in Pough- agency also installed a new energy efficient cli- keepsie and Highland. The $38 million project is a mate control system and restored the exterior of partnership between New York State, the federal this 18th century structure. government, the non-profit Walkway Over the Hudson, the Dyson Foundation, Scenic Hudson, • . The Spa Park’s picnic and private donors. New York’s 179th state park pavilions are popular destinations for family has instantly become a resounding success, hosting reunions, company events, fundraisers, and as many as 15,000 visitors per day. parties. Yet the picnic facilities had not been upgraded since their • Taconic Regional Office Project. OPRHP is original construction completing a comprehensive renovation of the in the 1960s and vacant Staatsburg School, located in Mills-Norrie were in sore need of State Park. This adaptive re-use project of a his- reinvestment. The toric 1930s building is scheduled for completion agency completed a in December, 2009. The project will relocate the $1.5 million infra- Taconic regional office from its current outdated structure improve- and cramped location in the basement of the ment project to Saratoga Spa State Park Staatsburgh State Historic Site (where the regional renovate six pavilion/restroom complexes in the offices were “temporarily” located in 1938). The park. These upgrades meet accessibility goals, project showcases environmental design elements add amenities to the picnic areas, and help re- and will receive Leadership in Energy and Envi- duce overall maintenance expenses. ronmental Design (LEED) certification. The build- ing also includes a new park office, conference • . Moreau Lake is a rooms, and a large assembly space for training, popular campground, swimming beach, and events, public workshops, and meetings. This day-use park located in Saratoga County at the $7.2 million project, funded in large part through foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. During a private contribution, has created dozens of con- 2009, OPRHP made $2 million in investments to struction and skilled trade jobs. replace aging facilities, build seven new clean and efficient shower/restroom facilities to • Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park. “FDR” State service the park’s 148 campsites, and under- Park hosts 500,000 visitors annually. In 2009, take important safety upgrades to the park’s OPRHP completed major improvements to road- electric and water utilities. ways, parking areas, and accessible paths, improv-

2009 Annual Report 18 ing vehicular and pedestrian access to the picnic New York State Park Police areas, swimming pool, and other popular areas of the park. The Region is also constructing a The State Park Police had a particularly challenging new picnic shelter and rehabilitating basketball year in 2009. In addition to providing law enforce- courts, funded through a private contribution. ment, security, and operational support at New York’s 214 State Parks • Olana State Historic Site. The Olana Partner- and Historic Sites, ship, a non-profit friends group, and OPRHP the Park Police completely restored and transformed the site’s managed security historic carriage barn, which houses a new visitor at a robust sched- center, museum shop, and restroom facilities. ule of major events Work included replacing the rusting metal roof across the state – with historically correct wood shakes, restoring including the Jones ornamental woodwork, and re-establishing the Beach Air Show, beautiful decorative painting. These improve- the U.S. Open Golf ments are enjoyed by the many visitors to Olana Championship at as the first point of public contact at the site. Bethpage State Park, and rock concerts at Jones Beach Theater, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, ArtPark, Thousand Islands Region and East River State Park in Williamsburg (Brooklyn).

• State Park. In July, State The Taconic and Palisades Regions provided police Council of Parks Chair Lucy Waletzky, Thou- staff to the newly opened Walkway Over the Hudson sand Islands Region Chairman Harold John- (spanning from the City of Poughkeepsie in Dutchess son, Commissioner Carol Ash, and New York County to the Town of Lloyd in Ulster County). The Power Authority Walkway opened in early October and has been hugely President Richard popular, attracting more than 400,000 visitors in its first Kessel opened two months of operation. Large crowds and heavy the newly reno- traffic conditions have required a regular police pres- vated beach area ence on the Walkway and surrounding parklands. complex at Rob- ert Moses State The Park Police participated in the opening ceremony Park, located at Hamlin Beach State Park (Genesee Region) for a on the St. Lawrence River near Massena. They new combined park administrative building and police were joined by 200 local dignitaries and park station. The new facility is a state of the art station supporters as they cut the ribbon on this $1.5 and a great asset for the Genesee region. In the Sara- million renovation project, which was funded toga / Capital Region a new Park Police station was through funds generated by the New York constructed at and will be Power Authority’s relicensing agreement for the formally opened soon. The Park Police personnel in St. Lawrence Moses/Saunders power project. the Taconic Region are looking forward to the open- ing of the new regional headquarters that includes a • Thousand Islands Campground comprehensive police facility. Improvements. During the winter and spring of 2008-09, OPRHP completed significant im- The Park Police have been challenged by a significant provements to campground facilities at Welles- reduction in force, stemming from state budget cuts. ley Island, Southwick Beach, and Westcott The annual police training academy was cancelled in Beach State Parks. Eight outdated campground both 2008-09 and 2009-10 due to the state’s fiscal restroom/shower buildings were replaced with situation. As a result, Park Police staffing in the parks modern, accessible facilities. Contracts totaling next summer will be down 25 percent (70 uniformed over $3 million, funded by OPRHP’s capital bud- officers) from July 2008 levels. Park Police personnel get, were awarded to local contractors creating have worked tirelessly to provide adequate patrol cov- construction jobs in the region. erage for the new facilities and events and to cover for the vacant police officer positions.

2009 Annual Report 19 State Board for Historic Preservation

• NYS Rehabilitation Tax • Cultural Resource Data • New York State Credit Program. In July, Base. The State Historic Historic Preservation Plan 2009, Governor Paterson Preservation Office (SHPO) 2009-2013: Historic Pres- signed legislation that greatly has received a $1.8 million ervation at a Crossroads. expands and improves New grant to undertake a major This year, OPRHP completed York State’s Rehabilitation Tax update and expansion of its an updated Five-Year Historic Credit Program for both resi- existing information tech- Preservation Plan, which was dential and commercial prop- nology systems. Funding approved by the National Park erties. Owners of residences from the New York State Service. The plan: provides listed in the State or National Department of Transporta- comprehensive information Registers of Historic Places, tion Enhancement Program related to the background and located in an increased num- provides 80 percent of the current trends in the preserva- ber of economically distressed estimated project costs. This tion movement; delineates areas, will now be eligible for large scale effort is likely to seven major goals and a com- a state tax credit of 20 percent take three to five years to prehensive vision for efforts of investments made in reha- complete and will transfer by federal, state, municipal, bilitating their homes. House- over 30 years of archival non-profit and private enti- holds with annual incomes paper records to digital ties engaged in historic pres- under $60,000 will be eligible format, including 25,000 ervation; and sets forth key for a rebate as opposed to a archeology reports, more strategies for the agency. In credit. On the commercial side, than 250,000 building sur- order to effectively implement the credit has been raised to a vey forms, photographs and the plan’s strategies, OPRHP full 20 percent of eligible costs other paper records. When adopted an internal goal of for listed properties in eligible complete, the expanded further integrating historic census tracts, with a cap of $5 system will provide federal preservation work into the million in credit. These amend- and state agencies, munici- agency while meeting the in- ments, along with clarifica- pal governments, develop- creased demand for preserva- tions on what entities may ers, and consultants with tion assistance to communities receive the credit, will make the web-based, user-friendly and organizations around the program much more usable access to the computerized state. The Bureau of Historic and effective. The amended records and map-based Sites and the Field Services program is expected to be one information maintained at Bureau have been re-united as of the most effective economic SHPO. part of the Division for His- and community development toric Preservation and a review tools available in the state, team has been appointed to generating both downtown analyze existing programs and renewal and neighborhood services and identify proactive revitalization. steps the agency can take to advance the state plan.

2009 Annual Report 20 Statewide Stewardship Initiatives

ver the past year OPRHP launched Rivers, Midway, Allegany, Rob- variety of adapted sports and three major initiatives to enhance ert G. Wehle, and Green Lakes events. In October, a regional the agency’s stewardship of New State Parks. competition of this event was O York’s 214 State Parks and Historic held at SUNY Brockport, where Sites: • Sustainability. In 2009, OPRHP more than 300 youngsters en- adopted an agency-wide sus- joyed the competition. • Natural Resource Stewardship tainability plan, outlining strate- and Interpretation. In order gies for incorporating energy • Empire State Senior Games. to enhance stewardship and efficiency, green design, LEED More than 1,600 athletes partici- interpretation of the State Park certification, recycling, and pated in the Senior Games held System’s incredible wealth of green product procurement in June, 2009 at SUNY-Cortland. plants, animals, into all of the agency’s activities and ecosystems, and programs. A number of • Empire State Summer Games. OPRHP has con- projects and initiatives are now The 2009 Summer Games, tinued an agency- underway. Examples include which had been scheduled in wide natural the installation of solar panels the Hudson River Valley, were resource initiative. at the Maintenance Garage cancelled due to budget cuts Examples of natural resource in Niagara Falls, the testing of stemming from New York State’s projects initiated during 2009 fully-electric vehicles at Green unprecedented fiscal crisis. Plans include: “daylighting” a stream Lakes State Park, and the roll- are underway to restore the Sum- at Mills-Norrie State Park (the out of our sustainability intranet mer Games in Buffalo for July, stream previously ran through site, which is regularly updated 2010. Funding will come from 500 feet of underground with the latest relevant news a mix of state support, modest culvert – the agency removed and information. increases to athlete participation the culvert and constructed a fees, and a newly announced natural streambed); initiating a The Hugh L. Carey private fundraising initiative. major project to expand habitat for the federally-endangered Empire State Games Conclusion Karner blue butterfly at Sara- During 2009 The State Council of Parks urges toga Spa State Park; improving OPRHP orga- Governor Paterson and the State habitat for the state endan- nized three Senate and Assembly to provide gered Northern Cricket Frog Empire State OPRHP the needed operational at Sterling Forest State Park; Games: funding to assure the safe operation developing a research and re- and stewardship of New York’s 214 moval plan to control the highly • Empire State Parks and Historic Sites – and invasive Pale-Swallow-wort at State Winter Games. The to avoid cuts that would result in Wehle State Park, and establish- Winter Games were conducted closing parks for the first time ever in ing a Sensory Butterfly Garden/ in Lake Placid, the permanent the park system’s 125-year history. Meadow on an old spoils field home of the winter competi- at Allegany State Park. tions, in February, 2009. More We also urge the Governor and than 1,200 athletes competed • Master Planning. In 2008, Legislature to include $100 million in nine winter sports. in the FY2010-11 state budget to OPRHP launched an initiative to develop 25 Master Plans over continue the State Parks Capital • Empire State Games for the Initiative. the next five years to guide Physically Challenged. The management and development 25th Games for the Physically These efforts will sustain the State of State Parks and Historic Sites. Challenged were held in May, Over the past two years, Mas- Park System’s unique contributions 2009 at Mitchell Field and to the health of our citizens and eco- ter Plans have been initiated Nassau Community College on at Saratoga Spa, Caumsett, nomically vibrant local communities Long Island. More than 1,200 across New York State. Jamesport, Minnewaska, Two young athletes competed in a 2009 Annual Report 21 Roles & ResponsibilitiesAppendix of1: State Council and Regional Commission Members

Roles and Responsibilities: Members, State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation October 16, 2007

The State Council, created by Article 5 of PRHPL, To advance these responsibilities, consists of the Chairs of the eleven Regional State Council of Parks members shall: Parks Commissions (including a representative of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission), the 1. Endeavor to attend all State Council of Parks Chair of the State Board of Historic Preservation, meetings. the Commissioner of State Parks, and the Com- missioner of Environmental Conservation, The 2. During State Council meetings and through Governor appoints the Chair and Vice Chair of other channels, educate other Council the State Council. The Council meets at least Members, the State Parks Commissioner, and four times per year through in-person meetings other Executive and OPRHP Staff about and conference calls. The Council’s statutory issues, priorities, challenges, and opportuni- responsibilities include: ties within their respective regions.

• Act as a central advisory agency on all 3. Communicate State Council and agency matters affecting parks, recreation, and priorities and initiatives to all Regional historic preservation. Commission members. Encourage, motivate, and support fellow Regional Commissioners • Review the policy, budget, and statewide to enable them to fully engage in state parks plans of the agency and make appropriate issues. recommendations regarding their amend- ment or adoption. 4. Become educated about statewide parks, recreation, and historic preservation issues. • Submit reports to the Governor, not less than once each year, concerning progress 5. Develop and submit a written annual report in the area of state parks, recreation, and to the Governor each October. historic preservation. 6. Undertake all responsibilities of Regional Parks Commissioners (attached).

2009 Annual Report 22 Regional Park, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissions Members’ Roles and Responsibilities October 16, 2007

The ten Regional Park, Recreation and Historic ship. Actively participate in the formation Preservation Commissions, created by Article 7 or enhancement of Friends Groups, includ- of PRHPL, represent each State Parks region, with ing considering making personal financial the exception of the Palisades (represented by contributions, and assisting in fundraising the Palisades Interstate Park Commission) and the efforts. Adirondack/ region. Each Regional Commission consists of seven to fourteen mem- • Meet with State Legislators and other bers (the number for each commission is set in elected officials to educate them about law). All Commission members, who must be issues, challenges and opportunities facing residents of the state, are appointed by the Gov- state parks and historic sites and advocate ernor and confirmed by the Senate for seven-year for state park funding and policy priorities. terms. The Governor designates the chair of each Commission. Each Regional Commission meets at 4. Enlist the support of parks user groups, en- least four times per year. The Regional Commis- vironmental and historic preservation organiza- sions are charged with acting as a central advisory tions, land trusts, local community and business body on all matters affecting parks, recreation, and leaders, tourism officials, and other partners to historic preservation within their respective regions, advance state parks goals and priorities. with particular focus on the operations of the state parks and historic sites. 5. Become educated about parks, recreation, and historic preservation issues throughout To advance these responsibilities, Regional the region, with particular emphasis on issues Parks Commissioners shall: – such as inappropriate development, sprawl, illegal ATVs, climate change, invasive species, 1. Endeavor to attend all Regional Parks etc. – that threaten state parks and historic Commission meetings. sites. Testify or appear as appropriate at en- vironmental review hearings, local planning 2. Learn about the operations, priorities, and meetings, etc. regarding proposed projects that programs of the region, and participate in the impact park and historic site resources. annual review and approval of the regional budget. Remain in regular contact with the 6. Participate as appropriate in continuing Regional Director. Visit as many state parks education opportunities such as: attending the and historic sites in the region as possible, and annual Facilities Managers conference; partici- become acquainted with regional staff and park pating in park master planning, trailway devel- managers. opment, and parkland designation efforts (such as Bird Conservation Areas and Natural Heri- 3. Serve as an advocate for the state parks and tage Areas) for individual parks; and attending historic sites within the region, including: parks, open space, and historic preservation conferences and training programs. • “Adopt” one or more state parks, or historic sites, so that every park and site 7. Assist in identifying qualified individuals to in the region has a Regional Commissioner fill vacant Regional Commission positions. with whom they have a special relation-

2009 Annual Report 23 New York State Council of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation The Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza Agency Building 1 Albany, New York 12238 518-486-1868 Fax: 518-486-2924

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