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California May Close Parks to Cut Budget

Posted by: Nate Berg
Thanks to: Vern Sanders
4 February 2008 - 12:00pm

As part of an effort to reduce the state's budget expenses, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has proposed a plan that would close 48 state parks.

"Joggers, surfers, artists and other avid users of California's state parks and beaches expressed outrage and disbelief as they absorbed word of Schwarzenegger's proposal, which would shutter even famed San Simeon State Park near Hearst Castle. In addition to the 48 closures, the governor suggested cutting back lifeguards at 16 state beaches."

"Of the state's 278 parks, those slated for closure are the least used, produce the least revenue and are the easiest to secure, according to parks officials."

"If the budget takes effect as written, gates would be put up at the entrances to 43 of the parks, which would be patrolled and maintained but would not be open to the public, said state parks Director Ruth Coleman. Others would be partially closed. For instance, one of the two campgrounds at Mt. San Jacinto State Park would be closed. The sites slated for closure include Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park in the state's far northwest corner and Salton Sea State Recreation Area in the southeast."

Full Story: Gov.'s proposal to close 48 sites angers avid users
Source: The Los Angeles Times, January 11, 2008
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