2024 marks 100 years of state parks in New York and the state plans to celebrate.
Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement that community events and celebrations will take place next year across the Empire State.
“New York State led the nation in creating a State park system for our citizens 100 years ago,” Governor Hochul said. “As we celebrate through next year, New York will continue to invest in our park system to support the State’s outdoor recreation economy, expand access to underserved communities, address the impacts of climate change, and position New York State as a top recreation destination.”
Aside from celebrating, the centenary campaign will also work on restoring and expanding parks’ visitor capacity, expanding park access to underserved communities, preparing areas for the effects of climate change, and positioning the state’s parks and historical sites to be international travel destinations.
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, “I am reminded every day of the immense pride and enjoyment New Yorkers take in the park and historic site system. We look forward to celebrating 100 years of connections between New York State Parks and Historic Sites, their communities and their partners – and laying the foundation for a vibrant, welcoming and sustainable park system for the next century.”
As part of the campaign, a new website has been created to keep residents in the loop about upcoming events throughout the state.
In 1924 the state created the New York State Council of Parks which currently oversees more than 250 parks and historical sites.
