Wolk bill boosts Central Valley's state park system

Senate Committee passes legislation to increase state parks, recreation in the Valley

SACRAMENTO–The State Senate Natural Resources Committee voted today to approve legislation by Assemblywoman Lois Wolk (D-Davis) to bring additional state parks and recreation opportunities to California’s Central Valley.

Wolk’s Assembly Bill 1426 requires the State Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) to develop and implement a detailed plan to expand and improve park facilities and recreation programs in the Central Valley State Park System.
 
“Residents of the Central Valley are underserved by existing state parks and recreation facilities,” said Wolk. “This is one of the fastest growing regions in the state, and the state has found it difficult to keep up with the area’s exploding infrastructure needs. Without a comprehensive strategy we risk losing the valley’s significant natural resources and recreation opportunities, which could be engulfed by development.”

Wolk’s bill requires State Parks to identify and prioritize specific sites and projects for acquisition and development, giving priority when possible to significant natural resources, using recent state research and public outreach efforts. High priority was given to water-based recreation facilities such as rivers and reservoirs.

“Last year, State Parks concluded a four-year study on options for expanding service in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys,” she said. “The department conducted research and held town hall meetings, gathering citizens’ recommendations on the places they want to preserve and protect. The result was the Central Valley Vision, a 20-year road map for the department to increase service to Valley residents and visitors.”

What Central Valley Vision requires is a specific implementation plan or timetable for implementation, something addressed by Wolk’s bill.  “AB 1426 ensures that this important Vision is carried out,” she said.