View Full Version : New Jersy State Parks to close?
From NY Times (online) moments ago;
TRENTON, July 1 -- Unable to break a bitter impasse with the New Jersey Legislature on a new budget, Gov. Jon S. Corzine signed an executive order today that shut down the state’s government for the first time in its history.
The order began a process that over the next few days will see the state close its parks, beaches and, depending on the outcome of a court decision, possibly the 12 Atlantic City casinos....
It'll be interesting to see how this effects High Point State Park in New Jersey. A lot of thru-hikers are probably in that area right now.
Frolicking Dinosaurs
07-01-2006, 14:38
Looks like a political tactic on the part of the governor to get the budget passed. The second the casinos close, all the reps in NJ will be getting non-stop calls. Even the threat to do it will begin the calls.
Years ago, the governor in TN laid-off all state workers for like one day in a similar senario. I didn't get the day off because child protective services is considered a vital service like police service and hospitals. There was a huge response from the public .
I once worked on a Maine Conservation Corps project partly on the A.T. For much of the summer, the funding for the project was turned off and temporarily turned back on with supplimental funding while the governor and legislature scrapped with one another over the budget. Didn't do much for the project or morale of my team.
I hope they'll get the issue resolved soon for the good of everyone on the other side of DWG, hikers included.
dreamhiker
07-01-2006, 16:16
possibly the 12 Atlantic City casinos
They will never do this to much $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ at stake.
DreamHiker
Has this or will this affect any of the '06 or '07 thru hikers?
Any one know?
Yeah, but did the Govenor lay off his staff & NJSP bodyguards and drivers?
I think not. Its all politics as usual.
Amigi'sLastStand
07-03-2006, 01:17
http://www.wlns.com/Global/story.asp?S=5106666&nav=0RbQ'
Short article about whats acoming.
Two Speed
07-03-2006, 10:13
Has this or will this affect any of the '06 or '07 thru hikers?
Any one know?Might, but I doubt the trail itself will be closed.
Just spoke to a ranger at High Point State Park. As of now, there are no plans to close the trail, but "things are changing every hour." I was advised to call back tomorrow for an update on the situation. They do expect to close the park - and already have partial closures in place.
The only affect on current hikers - if the trail is closed - will be a road walk which is about the same distance as the AT itself.
Two Speed
07-03-2006, 10:35
Can they actually close the AT itself? I understand New Jersey can choose to close the state parks, and gate any roads leading into the park, but I'd be surprised to find that New Jersey can "close" the AT.
Amigi'sLastStand
07-03-2006, 11:42
Can they actually close the AT itself? I understand New Jersey can choose to close the state parks, and gate any roads leading into the park, but I'd be surprised to find that New Jersey can "close" the AT.
I'm interested in this point myself. The only thing I can think of is that since it is on NJ property, and they maintain it, they may feel they are at legal exposure to leave it open with no rangers around ( sections in state parks ). Also, this battle is bitter, and the governor is making it as painful as possible for anyone he can ( the casinoes?!?!). If he knew he'd piss off the hiking community, he'd do it in a heartbeat and point the finger at the legislature. Anyone know the answer?
Alligator
07-03-2006, 11:48
I'm interested in this point myself. The only thing I can think of is that since it is on NJ property, and they maintain it, they may feel they are at legal exposure to leave it open with no rangers around ( sections in state parks ). ...It's a unit of the NPS, so I doubt they can close it without federal consultation.
Ridge Rat
07-03-2006, 15:29
Looks like a political tactic on the part of the governor to get the budget passed. The second the casinos close, all the reps in NJ will be getting non-stop calls. Even the threat to do it will begin the calls.
Please god close the casino's. I am an EMT in atlantic city and I have to say business is always hopping because of those casinos. Atlantic city is an illusion to get your money. It's not a nice town and people dont realise to not go out of the casinos at night. A week off of constant running would be nice. This weekend has been hectic. 2 gunshots, 3 stabbings and a whole bunch of drug problems. Not to mention the normal Drunk problem in the area. Free booze+people who cant handle their alcohol=more work for me. I will never cry to see the city close down for a while.
atraildreamer
07-03-2006, 18:32
From NY Times (online) moments ago;
TRENTON, July 1 -- Unable to break a bitter impasse with the New Jersey Legislature on a new budget, Gov. Jon S. Corzine signed an executive order today that shut down the state’s government for the first time in its history.
The order began a process that over the next few days will see the state close its parks, beaches and, depending on the outcome of a court decision, possibly the 12 Atlantic City casinos....
I just came back from Jersey City. The toll booths on the Garden State Parkway are still in business.:mad:
I just came back from Jersey City. The toll booths on the Garden State Parkway are still in business.:mad:
Have EZPass, will travel.
Can they actually close the AT itself? I understand New Jersey can choose to close the state parks, and gate any roads leading into the park, but I'd be surprised to find that New Jersey can "close" the AT.
Word is they start draining Sunfish Pond at sunup tomorrow.
I applaud Governor Corzine. I come from a state where, 3 years out of 4, our fata*s, overpaid, perc-addicted, slothful legislature can't get a budget done on time. That's their job, not the governor's. None of these BS interim emergency spending bills. Shut it down. I bet NJ gets a budget real quick.
Of course, they'll have to allocate a million or so to re-fill Sunfish Pond.
Two Speed
07-04-2006, 07:15
Word is they start draining Sunfish Pond at sunup tomorrow . . . What are they going to do with that? Drink it? Dang, next thing you know they're gonna start rolling up the trail and there won't be anything but woods left.
Frolicking Dinosaurs
07-05-2006, 11:55
Let the countdown to the NJ legislators reaching a budget agreement begin: State cash crunch closes N.J. casinos (http://www.gulfinthemedia.com/index.php?m=upi&id=182410&lang=en)
Date : July 05, 2006
All 12 casinos in Atlantic City, N.J., fell silent Wednesday morning as the debt-strapped state stopped paying the state inspectors who monitor them.
The first casino closures since they opened in 1978 were part a shutdown of non-essential state government operations ordered by Gov. Jon Corzine. The governor is seeking a sales tax increase to cover a $4.5 billion deficit. The General Assembly, controlled by Democrats like Corzine, failed to pass Corzine's $31 billion budget, setting up the shutdown.
State offices have been closed since Saturday, keeping 45,000 state workers at home unpaid. About 36,000 child welfare, state police, mental hospitals and other vital workers remained on the job, but were working without pay, WCBS-TV in New York reported.
The New Jersey lottery was closed, along with state parks, horse racing tracks, beaches, campgrounds and historic sites.
Meanwhile, many casino players were annoyed when told they had to evacuate the casinos by 8 a.m. Wednesday, the report said.
They're going to lose a lot of money, said one gambler. Why close it down when you could just do your job and put the budget together? That's what they're paid for.
The casinos have a $1.1 billion payroll and contribute about $1.3 million a day to state coffers, the report said.
Time To Fly 97
07-05-2006, 15:12
Wawayanda State Park (N. Jersey) is closed. They have a police car at the gates.
I am sure that thru-hikers would not be bothered by this. You could always apologize with due respect later anyway. The rangers that I know in NJ are very cool guys and are very supportive of the AT and hikers. We are the type of folks that make their jobs easier because we LNT, aren't pyros, are safe, etc.
What really bothers me is how one person (Gov. Corzine) can shut down all the parks in NJ just for polital gain - and that is what it is - he loses face if his push to raise taxes isn't accepted. The significant daily loss of State Park, Jersey Shore and Casino revenue is NOT a way to resolve the deficit.
Hmm...who should I vote for next time?
TTF
Kevin A. Boyce
07-05-2006, 15:53
From the New Jersey Department of Enviromental Protection...
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/closure_info.html#4
(From a much larger page of info...)
Parks and Forests Closing Information
State Park Police will be patrolling all areas.
All state park services will cease and most state parks will be closed to the public at the close of operations on July 4, 2006.
However, some state parks contain private concessions that may still operate and which the public will be able to access. All state parks and recreation areas affected are listed below.
Lifeguards will not be on duty as of close of business on July 4 at state parks and recreation areas. For more specific information see the list below.
State services will be unavailable at State marinas. For more specific information see the list below. However, boat-owner access will be available.
Closure Information
Abram S. Hewitt State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/abram.html)(Passaic County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Allaire State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/allaire.html) (Monmouth County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Allamuchy Mountain State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/allamuch.html) (Morris, Sussex, Warren Counties)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Atsion Recreation Area (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/wharton.html) (Burlington County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/barnlig.html) (Ocean County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All State services and facilities closed.
Bass River State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/bass.html) (Burlington and Ocean Counties)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Belleplain State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/belle.html) (Cape May and Cumberland Counties)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/byrne.html) (formerly Lebanon)
(Burlington County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Bull's Island Recreation Area (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/bull.html) (Hunterdon County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All State services and facilities closed.
Cape May Point State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/capemay.html) (Cape May County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Cheesequake State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/cheesequake.html) (Middlesex County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Corson's Inlet State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/corsons.html) (Atlantic County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/drcanal.html) (Somerset County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Double Trouble State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/double.html) (Ocean County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Senator Frank S. Farley State Marina (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/marinas.html) (Atlantic County)
All state services closed effective July 5, 2006.. Boat owner access available.
Farny State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/farny.html) (Morris County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Forked River State Marina (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/marinas.html) (Ocean County)
All state services and facilities closed effective July 5, 2006. Boat owner access available.
Fortescue State Marina (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/marinas.html) (Cumberland County)
Boat owner access available.
Fort Mott State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/fortmott.html) (Salem County)
The park and all state services and facilities will be closed effective July 5, 2006. Access to Three Fort Ferry will be maintained.
Hacklebarney State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/hackle.html) (Hunterdon, Morris, Somerset Counties)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
High Point State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/highpoint.html) (Sussex)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Hopatcong State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/hopatcong.html) (Morris and Sussex Counties)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Island Beach State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/island.html) (Ocean County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Jenny Jump State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/jennyjump.html) (Warren County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Kittatinny Valley State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/kittval.html) (Sussex County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Leonardo State Marina (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/marinas.html) (Monmouth County)
All state services and facilities closed effective July 5, 2006. Boat owner access available.
Liberty Landing Marina (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/marinas.html) (Hudson County)
Boat owner access available.
Liberty State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/liberty.html) (Hudson County)
The park will be closed effective July 5, 2006 to all, except marina boat owners and patrons of the Circle Line Ferry.
Long Pond Ironworks State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/longpond.html) (Passaic County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Monmouth Battlefield State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/monbat.html) (Monmouth County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Norvin Green State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/norvin.html) (Passaic County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Parvin State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/parvin.html) (Cumberland County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Penn State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/penn.html) (Burlington County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Princeton Battlefield State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/princeton.html) (Mercer County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Ramapo Mountain State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/ramapo.html) (Bergen and Passaic Counties)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Rancocas State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/rancocas.html) (Burlington County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Ringwood State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/ringwood.html) (Bergen and Passaic Counties)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Round Valley Recreation Area (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/round.html) (Hunterdon County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Spring Meadow Golf Course (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/spring.html) (Monmouth County)
Golf course, state services and facilities closed effective July 5, 2006. Restaurant will be open.
Spruce Run Recreation Area (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/spruce.html) (Hunterdon County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Stephens State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/stephens.html) (Morris and Warren Counties)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Stokes State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/stokes.html) (Sussex County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Swartswood State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/swartswood.html) (Sussex County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Voorhees State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/voorhees.html) (Hunterdon County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Washington Crossing State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/washcros.html) (Mercer and Hunterdon Counties)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Washington Rock State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/washrock.html) (Somerset County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Wawayanda State Park (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/wawayanda.html) (Passaic County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Wharton State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/wharton.html) (Atlantic, Burlington, and Camden Counties)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Worthington State Forest (http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/worthington.html) (Warren County)
Park closed effective July 5, 2006. All state services and facilities closed.
Tim Rich
07-05-2006, 16:26
If the legislatures doesn't cave to Corzine's sales tax increase, this could go on for a while. They have a 4.5 billion shortfall on a budget of just 31 billion, which is about 15 percent.
The press is big on the casino angle, and we're sensitive here to the parks side of it, but only essential services are operating, and many of them without pay.
With so many State revenues exceeding projections, it would be great if they were looking at this on the expenditure side as well.
Frolicking Dinosaurs
07-05-2006, 16:36
When this happened in TN, all of the state employees got paid for the days off (most are salaried workers) and those of us who had to work got 1.5 hours of comp time (extra vacation time) for each hour worked in addition to our normal pay.
Maybe some days without people will be be good for the little birdies and squirrellies and trees and such.
atraildreamer
07-06-2006, 19:34
If the legislatures doesn't cave to Corzine's sales tax increase, this could go on for a while.
The RI legislature makes the NJ legislature look like amateurs. They made a TV show about organized crime in RI and based it on the RI pols. :mad:
Our first sales tax was called "A penny for (John O) Pastore" who was governor at the time (the 1950s). It was supposed to be "temporary".:rolleyes:
We are now up to 7 percent, and the crooked pols are still whizzing away the $$$ as fast as they can get their crooked hands on it.:(
Let NJ go bankrupt...it will only hurt for a while. Then you can use the opportunity to get rid of the idiots in charge. I'm waiting for it to happen in RI. Of course, the downside is that a new bunch of idiots will be elected. :eek:
New Jersy State Parks to close? I wish they had closed when I came thru. More picnic tables, free camping, Less traffic, Fewer Day hikers (especially groups). I doubt they turn off the water and lock the showers, if so...so what. Great news to those Thrus in NJ.
NJ has a budget. Story here. (http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=asAYp284LJ34&refer=home)
I just called a friend of mine in NJ, hadn't spoke to him in a year or two. I called to ask what was the problem up there. His reply was "We are just one very large Washington DC. He said the crime rate had gone out the roof and the politicians can't even control their bowel movement." Anyway, I know NJ has its problems, I just hope none of them will or can interfere with the AT.