Senator Serrano Applauds Governor's State of the State Address

New York, NY -- State Senator José M. Serrano (D-Manhattan/Bronx) expressed great optimism following today's State of the State address. In particular, he pointed to Governor Andrew Cuomo's proposal to bring much-needed repairs to 48 state parks and historic sites, and his focus on these as a tool for tourism and economic development.

"This Governor's proven track record in determining the needs of the state, and his ability to follow through with plans that deliver results has inspired great confidence in both the legislature and the public," said the Senator.

In his address, the Governor stated that 83 percent of parks and historic sites are in need of repair, many of the damage having been caused by recent hurricanes Irene and Lee.

"New York State boasts the oldest state parks system in the nation, and in the past few years we have fought and succeeded in preventing widespread park closures," said Serrano. "We've recently seen record-breaking attendance to state parks, and these numbers will continue growing if we focus on repairing and revitalizing their infrastructure."

The Senator pointed to Roberto Clemente State Park, which is part of the 28th Senatorial District. "I've seen first-hand how Roberto Clemente Park has been an invaluable resource for recreation and community engagement in my district by offering a great opportunity for city dwellers to develop an appreciation for the outdoors.  However, like most other state parks, it is in dire need of capital funding.”

"Governor Cuomo understands that parks are a smart investment, and that they’re a major source for, not only recreation, but tourism and job creation," said Senator Serrano, who is the Ranking Member of the Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation Committee.  “Tourism dollars brought in by state parks aren’t limited to the money generated within the parks themselves. Restaurants, hotels, small businesses and other economic engines in communities based around these parks also enjoy revenue fromvisitors.”

I greatly appreciate Governor Cuomo’s continued dedication to the tourism sector, and his commitment to revitalizing some of New York’s most precious treasures: Our State Parks and Historic Sites.

The Senator added:  "I am looking forward to working with Governor Cuomo and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to improve education, create jobs, and breathe new life into the economy of New York State."