State Changes Free Parks Access for people with Disabilities

Rochester YNN, May 20, 2010

New York State closed 41 state parks to help bridge a $9.2 billion budget gap. Now, in another money-saving move, the state made changes to a program giving the disabled free or reduced cost admission to recreational facilities operated by State parks and the Department of Environmental Conservation.

The State Office of Parks and Recreation leaders said New York can save $1 million by changing eligibility requirements for the Access Pass program. The reform eliminates two of eight disability categories that grant free or reduced admission costs.

The categories are – semi-ambulatory, those receiving federal social security disability, supplemental security income or railroad retirement board disability.

Something that the Center for Disability Rights is not happy about.

“Particulary, it’s disappointing that this year is the 20th anniversary of the ADA and there’s a proposal here that would restrict access, restrict integration for people with disabilities,” said Chris Hilderbrant of the CDR. “When we really should be celebrating the ability of people with disabilities to really get out and be involved in the community.”

State Parks Commissioner Carol Ash said: “With the fiscal crisis forcing state parks closures and service cuts, the reform is necessary to prevent more drastic cuts to our facilities.”

The state says it can save $1 million by changing Access Pass eligibility requirements.