With summer now in full swing, it’s the perfect time to explore the beautiful landscapes and endless outdoor activities available to you right here in Central New York. And with this July marking 30 years of Parks and Recreation Month, there’s no better way to celebrate then by getting outside, enjoying fresh air and making memories with family and friends.

Parks beautify our neighborhoods, help preserve our natural resources and host some of our most adventurous activities. And parks are beneficial to our health and the environment. According to the National Recreation and Park Association, increased access to parks and recreational facilities leads to a 25 percent increase in people exercising three or more days a week. Parks also help to reduce our carbon footprint, with 1 acre of trees absorbing the carbon dioxide produced from driving a car 11,000 miles.¹

Featuring some of the most spectacular views in all of Central New York, Green Lakes State Park is one of our region’s premier destinations for outdoor recreation. Visitors to the park can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, camping and much more. Currently, the park is undergoing a $9 million renovation project made possible through the state’s NY Parks 2020 initiative. This includes over $3 million in renovations to the golf course’s clubhouse, improvements to the campgrounds and additional upgrades throughout the park. This investment will enhance and enrich the experiences of the park’s nearly 1 million annual visitors, while benefitting the state and local economy.

I also encourage you to grab your towels and sunscreen and visit the beaches at Jamesville Beach Park and Oneida Shores Park, which are now open. Jamesville Beach Park features 100 yards of lifeguarded waterfront and a 3,000 square foot inflatable raft zone, while Oneida Shores Park is known for its sandy shallow beach and picnic grounds. In addition to cooling off on a hot summer day, visitors to these parks can also engage in a variety of recreational activities including volleyball, golf, canoeing and kayaking.

In the spirit of Parks and Recreation Month, get out and get active by visiting one of the beautiful parks right here in our own backyard. Cheers to a great summer full of outdoor fun with family and friends. And, as always, if you have any questions or concerns about this or any other community issue, please don’t hesitate to contact me at StirpeA@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling 452-1115.

¹nrpa.org/july-power-of-parks