Our Advocacy Priorities

Investing in the next century for New York's World-Class Park System

New York State is at a turning point, as we look to the next century of our state parks system. Our state leaders have a decision to make – do they want to once again allow our iconic system to fall into disrepair, driving away visitors and starting a downward cycle of under-utilization, leading to economic loss and negative health and environmental impacts in communities across the state? Or will we invest in the future of this world-class system, providing residents and visitors with accessible facilities, welcoming diverse users and further enhancing the livability of our communities.

This year, PTNY will be advocating for the following:

Expand the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) to $500 million, an increase from $400 million in 2024
Expand the Park and Trail Partnership Grant Program to $4 million, an increase of $2 million
Expand the Connect Kids to Parks Program to $4 million, a $1 million increase
Expand Funding for the Municipal Parks Program to $40 million
Maintain $200 million in NY Works Funding for State Parks Capital funding
Expand the state’s annual investment in DEC's Adventure NY to $100 million, a $10 million increase
Propose a $10 million annual investment to expand and enhance New York’s trail network