|
Over 200 California parks at risk to close |
|
|
|
A newly developed budget proposal threatens to shut down some of California's most scenic parks, living history towns, and preservation areas.
California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has developed a budget cutting park spending by $70 million over the next year. Although deemed a “worst-case scenario,” 220 parks could be forced to close. Potentially at risk include Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay, Will Rogers' Southern California ranch, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Bodie State Historic Park, and the Governor’s Mansion in Sacramento.
Schwarzenegger’s plan would save more than $140 million in the subsequent year by shutting down the parks. However, many conservationists and devoted citizens are outraged by the looming hazards that could erupt by shutting down some of California’s most prominent attractions. The parks bring in vast tourism that would continue to boost state and local economies, but keeping them open could prove to be an impossible feat. Officials are hopeful and plan to keep as many parks open as possible, but if the plan is instated, 2,000 park rangers and other workers would be laid off and scenic California attractions would close. |
|
Last Updated ( Wednesday, 03 June 2009 )
|
